Republic Bank leads change by hosting first of its kind Sustainability Expo

Port of Spain, Trinidad, August 28, 2024 – Republic Bank marks another significant milestone in its commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and sustainable growth with the announcement that it will host its first Sustainability Expo next month. This landmark event takes place from September 13 to 14, 2024 at the Centre of Excellence, Macoya and aims to showcase the extensive range of sustainable products and services being offered by businesses within Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean and internationally.

Themed “Transforming Talk Into Action,” the Sustainability Expo is a move away from traditional talk-shops, and instead, will enable members of the public to engage directly with local and global subject matter experts.

During the Expo, attendees will have the opportunity to interact with over 100 companies, including 80 local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), showcasing their sustainability-related products and services across a wide range of industries including:
• Energy, Industry, Manufacturing
• Automotive, Architecture, Construction
• Financial Services/Development Banks, Services, Technology
• Tourism, Education, and Wellness
• Retail and Artisans (Small and Micro businesses).

Complementing the exhibition space is the Expo’s Conversation Café, where the visitors will benefit from expert talks and demonstrations, while gaining valuable insight into topics such as renewable energy, inclusive finance, the Circular Economy, sustainable agriculture, and the integration of technology in sustainability.

According to Republic Bank’s President & Managing Director, Nigel Baptiste, “As a financial institution, we recognise the critical role we play in supporting the transition to a sustainable economy. Taking concrete steps towards creating a more sustainable future is a key strategic priority for us. One illustration of this is our pledge to invest US $200 million in climate financing by the year 2025. As at May of this year, we’ve invested US $134 million, approximately 70% of that target. Our inaugural Republic Bank Sustainability Expo is further evidence of our focus to making meaningful and tangible change by working in partnership key stakeholders in the sphere.”

Global digital payments powerhouse, VISA has signed on to be a platinum sponsor of the flagship event which is open to the public and free of charge.

Regarding VISA’s platinum sponsorship of the event, Mr. Baptiste added, “Transforming ideas into tangible outcomes demands a unified effort and VISA shares this commitment. We are excited to partner with them to turn our shared vision into impactful change.”

Jorge Salum, Senior Business Development Leader, Caribbean Countries, VISA shared “At VISA, we see sustainable and inclusive development in collaboration with the business sector, government, and society as a fundamental dimension of our business growth. The digital banking sector has a great opportunity to boost inclusion and generate progress through equal opportunities and grassroots programmes that reduce socioeconomic disparity and elevate the dignity of work. It is part of our sustainability business efforts to drive accessibility of all population segments to digital channels, even those without bank accounts, while maintaining high security standards and providing an uninterrupted experience for card users.”

While Republic Bank’s Sustainability Expo is free to attend, pre-registration is encouraged. To learn more or to register, visit www.rblsustainabilityexpo.com