Principles and Agreements

Companies seeking to generate sustained corporate value require a business policy that takes account of the long-term needs of society.

Credit Suisse therefore pledges to take social and environmental issues into consideration when performing its business activities.

Shared basic values as a foundation

With the introduction of the Code of Conduct in 2000, Credit Suisse Group implemented a value system that is binding on all employees in all regions and serves as a guide for economically, environmentally and socially responsible conduct. In both its Code of Conduct and its Sustainability Policy, Credit Suisse Group pledges to take account of aspects of sustainable development in business decisions and in its contact with stakeholders, as well as in the management of its resources and infrastructure.

International environmental and sustainability charters

Credit Suisse has further underscored its commitment to sustainability by adopting a series of international agreements. It became one of the first financial services providers to sign the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) declaration for banks in 1992. In 2000, it signed up to the UN Global Compact – an initiative under which the signatories pledge to comply with ten principles relating to human rights, working conditions, environmental protection and anti-corruption efforts.

This overarching framework is supplemented by further agreements relating to specific areas of business. These include the Equator Principles - an international agreement aimed at addressing environmental and social issues in project finance.