Grupo Promerica; The sustainability is a strategic priority
San Salvador. The partnerships forged by Grupo Promerica over the past decades with banks and international organizations have been crucial to the development of its sustainability strategy. This strategy serves as a key element across all operations, aligning with environmental protection, community development, and economic growth.
Within this context, the Sustainability Summit: Driving a Green Future was organized by Banco Promerica El Salvador. Ramiro Ortiz Gurdián, CEO and Chief Business Officer of Grupo Promerica, emphasized that sustainability is viewed not just as a priority within the group but as a strategic pillar at the core of all activities, aimed at fostering a more prosperous society.
The event also featured the participation of Lázaro Figueroa, Executive President of Banco Promerica El Salvador, Marcelo Delgado, Environmental Risk Coordinator at Produbanco, along with representatives from the European Union, the German Development Bank (KfW), and the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), as part of the Green SMEs Initiative.
Sustainability at the Core of Promerica’s DNA
Ortiz Gurdián stated that sustainability is embedded in the DNA of the organization and recalled that, in 2013, the Dutch Development Bank (FMO) invited them, along with other banks, to participate in the creation of a sustainability strategy.
This initiative aligned with the UN’s mandate, which sought financial institutions that would align their portfolios with net-zero emissions by 2050 (Net Zero Banking Alliance). Seven Latin American banks signed this commitment, three of which belonged to the group (Banco Promerica Costa Rica, Banpro, and Produbanco).
Additionally, six of the Group’s banks have signed the UN Principles for Responsible Banking, aligning their regional strategy with the international goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEP).
Meanwhile, Lázaro Figueroa, President of Banco Promerica El Salvador, emphasized that the institution has always maintained a balance between technological disruption and solid risk management, with a customer-centered approach. This commitment forms the foundation of their Sustainable Banking model.
Grupo Promerica strongly believes that financing sustainability ensures the future for new generations, with the goal of contributing to a more prosperous society where natural resources are used responsibly. "This commitment reflects our values and ensures that we are building a future where everyone can thrive," Figueroa remarked.
Additionally, Banco Promerica was the first private bank in El Salvador to sign the UNEPFI Principles for Responsible Banking in 2021, and in 2022 it was authorized to issue the country's first sustainable bond, supported by IDB Invest, for up to $100 million.
Currently, Banco Promerica El Salvador’s sustainable portfolio exceeds $300 million, including green lines for energy efficiency and renewable energy, support for women leaders and entrepreneurs, and a strong focus on small and medium-sized enterprises.
