Paris, 9 January 2009

Crédit Agricole is today signing The Climate Principles, a code of best practice designed for the financial industry and coordinated by The Climate Group. It is thus confirming its commitment to tackling climate change and reducing emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG).

One of the first firms to sign up to the Equator Principles, Crédit Agricole is also a leading member of The Climate Principles, along with several other international financial institutions. The Group's commitment is consistent with its overall philosophy of environmental and social responsibility.

Financial institutions play a key role in combating climate change. Firstly as companies, they have a duty to reduce GHG emissions related to their business activities. Secondly as advisors, lenders, investors and insurers, they are instrumental in encouraging their customers - individuals, companies and local authorities - to opt for projects that mitigate climate risk. Lastly, they can accelerate innovation in the sphere of climate change.