HSBC Bank Oman plants trees and switches-off for Earth Hour 2015

As part of the Bank’s steadfast efforts to contribute in conserving the planet, HSBC Bank Oman S.A.O.G. launched a series of environmentally centred initiatives in commemoration of Earth Hour 2015. The Bank’s Head Office in Al Khuwair joined millions of people worldwide by switching off all lights from 8:30pm to 9:30pm on 28^th March, going into visible darkness that could be seen by residents in the area and commuters travelling on Sultan Qaboos Highway.

In addition to participating in the big switch off for Earth Hour, HSBC Bank Oman employees, in coordination with the Ministry of Health, have started planting trees in various health centres across the Sultanate’s governorates to help keep global warming at bay. The tree planting initiative, which kicked off on March 28^th in three health centres in Muscat, Sohar and Salalah, is part of a much larger campaign that will include more health centres around Oman. Palm trees were also planted at the Bank’s Head Office in Al Khuwair.

“As a bank that believes in acting responsibly towards sustaining our planet, we are delighted to join thousands of people in Oman to mark Earth Hour and demonstrate how collective efforts, even if minor, can have a long lasting impact in protecting our world for generations to come,” said Andrew Long, HSBC Bank Oman Chief executive Officer.

He added, “Starting 28^th March, our employees have been on the ground planting trees in Oman that will not only help in providing a clean atmosphere, but also enhance the country’s already fascinating natural environment.”

HSBC Bank Oman has long been dedicated to environmental conservation through its various corporate sustainability programmes. In 2014, almost 170 employees of the Bank volunteered their time and contributed over 860 hours of support to various corporate sustainability initiatives.