Skip to content

A Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is at the bedrock of all the work we do. We aim to ensure that all projects financed by our funds are implemented in a sustainable way and their ESG impacts are assessed, minimised and mitigated during project implementation.

We integrate the principles of sustainability and sound management into our operations and policies. Our projects are implemented in a way – one that is economically viable, environmentally sound, and socially responsible. We seek to deliver tangible outcomes with improved operational performance and efficient procurement, and adherence to good corporate governance practices.

We believe that environmental and social sustainability are crucial to addressing the infrastructure gaps and sustainable development needs, which are consistent with national laws and regulations, and our mandate.

Our Guiding Principles

Icon-Inclusive-Sustainable-Development
Inclusive and Sustainable Development

NDB looks for ways to ensure inclusive sharing of development benefits and opportunities, including among the socially vulnerable groups of society, such as the poor, the disadvantaged, women, children and minorities.

We recognise the importance of maintaining policy and operating standards that promote sustainable development, adopt international good practices, and effectively respond to environmental and social risks.

Icon-Country-Systems
Country Systems

NDB promotes the use of strong country and corporate systems in the management of environmental and social risks and impacts. We also assist in further strengthening the country systems through a variety of mechanisms in both the public and the private sectors.

Icon-Environment-Social-Interest
Environmental and Social Interests

NDB integrates the principles of environmental and social sustainability in its policies and operations. We work to ensure that our financing and investments in infrastructure and sustainable development projects have minimal adverse impact on the environment and people.

Icon-Climate-Change
Climate Change

NDB seeks to promote mitigation and adaptation measures to address climate change. We aim to build upon existing green economic growth initiatives and provide support for new ones at regional, national, sub-national and private sector levels.

We also encourage climate proofing of its infrastructure financing and investments to build resilience to climate change.

Icon-Conservation-Natural-Resources
Conservation of Natural Resources

NDB realises that natural resources are essential for economic growth. We promote the conservation of natural resources, including energy and water, while supporting sustainable land use management and urban development.

Icon-Gender-Equality
Gender Equality

At NDB, we believe that gender equality is important to successful and sustainable economic development. We consider it imperative to mainstream gender equality issues in all of our operations.

Icon-Precautionary-Approach
Precautionary Approach

NDB adopts a precautionary approach to justify discretionary decisions in situations where there is the possibility of environmental and social harm resulting from project decisions.

Icon-Cooperative-Functioning
Co-operative Functioning and Knowledge Dissemination

NDB seeks to complement the existing efforts of multilateral financial institutions, regional financial institutions and other agencies. Also, we intend to disseminate knowledge gained with our development partners.