The greenest big bank.

Bank Technology News just gave Citi top honors in its first ranking of "America's Greenest Banks." It was exciting news to the teams we have around the world working to reduce Citi's impact on the earth.

The award highlighted the accomplishments of Citi's Sustainable Operations & Technology program, which includes dozens of initiatives aimed at shrinking our environmental footprint and controlling costs. In just one example, we updated computer hardware across the 1,000+ Citibank branches in North America, reducing our branch energy costs by 15 percent annually while improving the speed with which we service our customers.

As one of many at Citi working on climate change solutions, I am thrilled that we're attracting attention for work that has engaged us for some time. Citi was a founding member in 2003 of the Equator Principles; in 2006 to a 10 percent absolute reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2011; and collaborated in 2007 with other stakeholders to establish the Carbon Principles. In 2007, we also announced a major 10-year initiative to direct $50 billion in investment in and financing of alternative energy, clean technology, and other carbon-emission reduction activities.

We're caring for the environment, improving service and reducing expenses. Citi customers choosing paperless statements are having a tangible impact, too. It is the combination of so many small changes that leads to great results!

Learn more about Citi's environmental programs here.