Sustainability in Banking: Analyzing the Adoption of Green Practices by Pakistani Commercial Banks

Abstract

The objective of this research is to assess the performance of commercial banks in Pakistan with respect to green banking practices, using the framework provided by the State Bank of Pakistan as the evaluation criterion. This study adopts a cross-sectional design, employing content analysis of the annual reports of commercial banks in Pakistan for the year 2023. Out of a total of forty-one banks, fourteen were selected through purposive sampling, specifically those that disclosed relevant information on their green banking initiatives in their annual disclosures. This study holds practical significance for regulators, policymakers, and industry practitioners. It addresses a gap in the existing literature by focusing on an underexplored area, thereby contributing to academic discussions around green finance and banking sustainability. Regulatory bodies can utilize the findings to gauge how well banks are adhering to green banking guidelines. Meanwhile, practitioners can benchmark their current performance, identify areas for improvement, and enhance their competitive standing by adopting more robust and innovative green banking practices.