IFC: A leader in Sustainability in Asia

IFC is a preferred financial partner for companies seeking to achieve international best practices in corporate governance and environmental and social matters.

Focusing on these areas improves corporate sustainability and makes sense for businesses in East Asia and the Pacific. Today’s companies face increased demands from investors and consumers. IFC has become a leader in working with clients to realize better performance while achieving higher standards.

We have a core commitment to sustainable development by:

• Ensuring that our projects attain high environmental and social standards;
• Consulting with local communities on project-specific environmental and social impacts and opportunities;
• Working with responsible clients and other lenders, and local NGOs; and
• Listening actively and responding to stakeholders and their concerns.

At IFC, we understand that clients have a continued need for our capital, and also for us to pioneer creative solutions that will contribute to sustainability of private sector activity in emerging markets. IFC’s ability to provide value to our clients beyond financing differentiates us from other financial institutions. This value comes from the expertise we have amassed over nearly half a century, from our global reach, and from our unique capabilities—particularly our expertise on environmental and social matters, as well as in corporate governance.

In February 2006, IFC completed a rigorous process of updating its environmental and social standards. The new standards are stronger, better and more comprehensive than those of any other international finance institution working with the private sector. They clearly define the roles and responsibilities of IFC and its client companies.