Europe’s Climate Leaders 2026: How RBI makes sustainability measurable
RBI was recognized by the Financial Times in its Europe’s Climate Leaders 2026 ranking – as the only bank in Austria. In this interview, Christine Würfel explains what lies behind this recognition, how sustainability is embedded in the core business, and the added value RBI offers its clients on their transformation journey.
RBI was recognized by the Financial Times in its Europe’s Climate Leaders 2026 ranking. It is the only bank in Austria represented in this ranking. The recognition is based on audited, consolidated sustainability data from the annual report, demonstrating measurable progress in reducing emission intensity. In this interview, Christine Würfel, Head of Group ESG & Sustainability Management at RBI, explains what lies behind this recognition, how sustainability is embedded in the core business, and the added value RBI offers its clients on their transformation journey.
Ms Würfel, what does this recognition mean to you – beyond the ranking?
This external recognition by the Financial Times, one of the leading international business newspapers, makes our consistent internal efforts visible. It is particularly noteworthy that RBI is the only representative of the Austrian financial sector included in the European list. That is a strong signal. Equally important, however, is the internal impact: for many committed colleagues who drive sustainability forward every day, this recognition is a major source of motivation and validation for their work. Especially against the backdrop of the current political ESG headwinds, it shows that a clear, long-term focus pays off. Sustainability remains essential if we want to make a difference.
Which developments and measures within RBI have, in your view, contributed most to this recognition?
RBI committed to the UN Principles for Responsible Banking as early as 2021, and we have been continuously embedding them into our internal processes. The Financial Times recognition is therefore based on the consistent integration of sustainability into RBI’s core business: clearly anchored, science-based climate targets with portfolio steering, the systematic integration of ESG into risk and lending processes, and the scaled implementation of sustainable finance products. In addition, RBI actively supports its corporate and retail clients in transformation strategies, financing structures and ESG implementation. The high degree of transparency in our audited sustainability data enhances external credibility.
What does this recognition mean in concrete terms for RBI’s clients who are in the midst of transformation and decarbonization processes?
As a bank, we are only as good as our portfolio. This result is therefore also a strong recognition for our clients – their transition pathways and the progress we have achieved together in implementing and financing sustainable business models.
How does RBI support its clients in making sustainability and climate targets measurable and financeable within their business models?
RBI supports its clients through strategic ESG advisory, the definition of measurable KPIs and their translation into sustainable finance products tailored to client’s needs. With industry-specific transformation know-how and a focus on data, impact and long-term partnerships, RBI makes sustainability and climate targets operationally actionable and financeable.
Where do you currently see the greatest value RBI can offer its clients on their transformation journey?
At present, RBI’s greatest added value lies in translating transformation targets into robust business and financing logic. By combining advisory services with tailored sustainable finance solutions, we support our clients in meeting regulatory requirements, structuring investments, and implementing them in an economically viable way.
In addition, we actively foster exchange among business, finance, politics, regulators, academia, and civil society as an important element of knowledge-building and of shaping sustainable transformation holistically to achieve measurable impact.
