If you’re looking for a bank that fits in with your eco lifestyle, offers great service and has environmentally-friendly buildings, then I’ve discovered the perfect one for you: PNC.
A Bank with a Mission
PNC was the first U.S. bank ever to build a green branch in 2002, and since then it has implemented its sustainability policies and green standards into 40 branches across 6 states. It was recently honored by Working Mother magazine as one of the nation’s ‘2007 Best Green Companies’ because it has more certified green buildings than any company in the world.
PNC has begun the effort to make sure that all of its new buildings meet the U.S. Green Building Council standards. Some of the features of the PNC buildings include:
- Solar energy panels on the roof that capture and convert sunlight into energy
- Countertops made of recycled paper and sustainable wood
- ‘Four-element assembly’ window walls that consist of two sheets of glass between two sheets of film to isolate temperatures
- Steel structures made from recycled metal
- Paint and glue used during construction that does not emit greenhouse gases
- Carpet made from recycled products
- The reusing of roof water to flush toilets
- Rubber flooring made from recycled content
Because of PNC’s efforts to use mainly recycled products and alternative energy sources for its buildings, its branches reduce their overall waste consumption by 75%! You can watch a video that outlines PNC’s green efforts here.
Bonus Bank Services
As if PNC’s green services weren’t great enough, the banks also have a concierge desk with someone to greet when you first walk in, plasma televisions to watch while you wait, an indoor coffee bar and an internet café with web access! There are also least four teller stations with a drive-thru service at each bank location.
PNC is setting green high standards for not only banks, but also for major companies across the world. They are also worldwide leaders in providing educational opportunities for children through their partnerships with community non-profit organizations. One such investment is PNC Grow up Great, which provides funds for grants that help the emotional, social and artistic development of children.
So, if you don’t have a bank or you’re thinking about switching to one that supports great causes, check PNC out!
