Banking for a greener future: a systematic review of sustainable initiatives in South Asia

Asdullah, Muhammad Ashar, Watto, Waqas Ahamd, Ijaz, Ali and Zeshan, Muhammad (2025) Banking for a greener future: a systematic review of sustainable initiatives in South Asia. Journal of Banking Regulation, 26 (3). pp. 610-626. ISSN 1745-6452

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Abstract

The expanding role of green banking in South Asia is examined in this study, with an emphasis on how financial institutions are balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. Natural resource depletion and climate change are two major environmental issues facing South Asian nations, which is why banks in the region are embracing green practices like ecofriendly loans, green investments, and sustainable products. The effectiveness of these measures is investigated, as are the particular challenges that banks encounter, such as legal constraints and striking a balance between environmental goals and economic expansion. This study offers insights into the many green banking tactics, the function of central banks and regulatory agencies, and the wider effects of these activities on sustainability by completing a thorough literature analysis. Key findings highlight the need for stronger regulatory frameworks, enhanced risk assessment mechanisms, and tailored green banking products that address the region’s specific needs. This study further identifies policy gaps and recommends future research directions to strengthen South Asia’s green finance landscape, emphasizing resilience against climate-related financial risks. Ultimately, the findings aim to guide policymakers, financial institutions, and stakeholders in fostering a sustainable and resilient banking sector in South Asia, aligning with global environmental goals while addressing regional priorities.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Data availability The data can be made available upon reasonable request to the corresponding author.
Uncontrolled Keywords:	climate change,environmental conditions,green banking,green products,sustainability,finance,economics and econometrics,sdg 8 - decent work and economic growth,sdg 9 - industry, innovation, and infrastructure,sdg 13 - climate action ,/dk/atira/pure/subjectarea/asjc/2000/2003
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Social Sciences > Norwich Business School
Related URLs:	https://www.scopus.com/pages/publication...
Depositing User:	LivePure Connector
Date Deposited:	05 May 2026 10:27
Last Modified:	09 May 2026 12:51
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/102898
DOI:	10.1057/s41261-025-00279-w

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