Nordea exits Equator Principles framework following full ESG integration in risk management processes

Nordea has decided to exit the Equator Principles, a global voluntary framework for financial institutions to identify, assess and manage environmental and social risks in project financing as a result of the integration of ESG in Nordea’s risk management processes. 

Nordea joined the Equator Principles in 2007 at a time when external voluntary commitments were key standard setters for the financial sector’s sustainability practices. Voluntary guidance and frameworks, such as the Equator Principles, have since played an important role in shaping and strengthening the financial sector’s ESG risk management. Over the past 18 years, our sustainability and ESG risk management capabilities have matured significantly, and ESG risk considerations are now fully embedded in Nordea’s internal credit processes. 

As a result, Nordea can continue to uphold high standards in environmental and social risk management through robust internal processes and frameworks that reflect our long-term commitment to providing sustainable finance and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest. 

Since 2022, we have facilitated more than EUR 200bn in financing for our customers’ sustainability-related activities, and our dedication to enabling transition through a sustainable customer offering remains unchanged. We will continue to apply stringent ESG criteria to all project finance decisions, in line with our strategy and sustainability priorities.