Q: What does corporate sustainability mean to CDB?
A: Citizens Development Business Finance (CDB) continues to adopt a socially, environmentally and economically inclusive approach – which has led sustainability to becoming an inseparable element – in its journey towards achieving the company’s vision.

Our positioning as a conscientious leader in the financial services industry will continue to be strengthened by combining urban funding and rural lending, and being recognised as the net lender to the rural economy. This aim ensures that every aspect of the business is entrenched in principles that promote sustainable growth.

With a solid foundation already established in terms of transformation, leadership, astute management and strategic vision, the company has taken action to incorporate a digital ecosystem in its overarching success formula, to reach out to the most vulnerable and rural communities – and contribute to financial inclusivity. This is encompassed in the larger vision of CDB’s sustainability agenda.

Our agenda aspires to differentiate itself with a sustainability led triple bottom line paradigm followed by strategic imperatives in the acceleration of sustainable mobility and energy solutions, encompassing the effect on financial inclusivity, enhancement of community impact, conservation of biodiversity, creation of green ambassadors and building a sustainable brand.

Q: Are sustainability related indicators used as performance measures?
A: In the journey of transitioning from a fintech mindset to that of a tech company reaching an asset base worth a quarter of a trillion rupees, our ambitious sustainability growth targets include positioning CDB to be the leader in sustainable finance, thereby advancing the green economy by 2030.

The company strives to inculcate a sustainability led mindset among team members and embed sustainability as a way of life. We empower them to make conscious decisions in switching to clean energy and mobility solutions.

CDB also envisions becoming a leader in sustainable financing for clean energy and mobility, reforestation, agriculture and tourism by 2030.

We look forward to stepping into the next decade with a team of committed and passionate green ambassadors, acting as the building blocks that build a strong, resilient and stable foundation for green growth.

Q: How does CDB identify environmental impacts and risks?
A: In an increasingly competitive business environment, the key to long-term sustainability is the ability to anticipate future trends – and develop long-term growth objectives.

CDB follows a sustainable financing approach when it comes to the management of environmental and social risks. Consumers can make use of responsible and inclusive financial services – such as loans and leases that leave a positive social and environmental footprint.

Additionally, CDB has structured its green journey in accordance with the country’s environmental laws and regulations. This ensures that the company contributes to the promotion of environmental protection, social justice and economic prosperity as it works to achieve financial excellence.

A transparent environmental and social management system (ESMS) has been integrated in the company’s credit evaluation process to showcase its commitment to incorporating environmental and social aspects in daily operations.

The company has also chosen to focus on seven of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With time and effort, I’m certain that we will be able to shift from being a part of the problem to position ourselves as an agent that resides at the heart of the solution.

Aroshi Ranatunga
Head of Sustainability and
Talent Management & Development

Telephone 7388388  |  Email customercare@cdb.lk  |  Website www.cdb.lk