The collaboration between Garanti BBVA and WWF-Romania, which began in 2010 with the launch of the WWF Bonus Card, has allowed cardholders to direct 0.3% of their purchases to WWF projects. Through this initiative, the bank has contributed with over €500,000 to essential WWF-led actions aimed at conserving the environment in the Carpathian Mountains and along the Danube, while also supporting the sustainable development of local communities.
“At Garanti BBVA, we strongly believe that actions directed towards environmental protection are crucial, as they contribute to community development and promote a durable and ethical environment. We are proud of our joint achievements with WWF-Romania over the past 14 years and our involvement in supporting initiatives that have a real impact on communities and the environment,” stated Virginia Oţel – Communication Leader Garanti BBVA Romania.
“Through our long-term partnership with WWF and the WWF Bonus Card, we aim to engage both our customers and the wider community in our collective efforts to conserve natural habitats and build a more sustainable future. The WWF Bonus Card remains a product of interest for Romanians, and we will continue to allocate significant funds to support projects that promote a brighter future for the next generations,” stated Emre Unal – Cards Payments System Director Garanti BBVA Romania.
The allocated funds have enabled WWF-Romania to carry out a series of impactful projects, including:
- Improving the Forest Code: Initiatives aimed at combating illegal logging and reducing deforestation.
WeWilder Campus: Contributing to the sustainable development of the Armeniș community. - First BearSmart City: Implementing smart solutions to foster peaceful coexistence between humans and bears.
- Bison Reintroduction: Supporting reintroduction and captive breeding programs in collaboration with Rewilding Europe.
- Ecological Reconstruction in the Danube Delta: Monitoring and supporting the ecological reconstruction project in Mahmudia, Tulcea County, initiated by WWF in 2012.
“Garanti BBVA has been with us since the early years of our operations in Romania. We greatly appreciate the trust they have placed in us, and our collaboration demonstrates our shared interest in conserving nature and creating a future where people live in harmony with nature. Their support has been translated into the successful implementation of numerous conservation projects with tangible results, both for the local communities where we operate and for biodiversity,” said Orieta Hulea, General Director of WWF Romania.
Garanti BBVA remains committed to continuing partnerships and responsible actions in the coming years, contributing to the protection of the environment and the sustainable development of local communities. The bank will continue to support initiatives that bring a positive impact on society and the environment, thereby strengthening its role as a trusted partner in efforts to create a sustainable future.
