BACKGROUND
A solution for sustainability reporting
In the context of sustainability transformation in the financial sector, Volksbank Cologne Bonn plays a key role. The bank has set ambitious goals closely aligned with the principles of the cooperative financial group and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Milestones of its sustainability strategy include integrating sustainability across all business areas and enhancing innovative, sustainable offerings for its customers. Additionally, the bank aims to achieve climate neutrality in its operations. Achieving these objectives required a comprehensive restructuring of its internal processes for sustainability management and reporting.

With Code Gaia, we have found a reliable partner who provides highly personalized support. The speed and flexibility in implementation were particularly crucial in achieving our goals.


Daniela Probandt
Sustainability Coordinator, Volksbank Cologne Bonn
CHALLENGES
Meeting stakeholder requirements
The challenges primarily lay in precise CO₂ accounting and the implementation of transparent reporting in accordance with the German Sustainability Code (DNK). The DNK is increasingly gaining importance as a framework for sustainability standards and reporting, as well as a basis for transparent communication with stakeholders in the financial sector. Furthermore, Volksbank Köln Bonn places significant emphasis on preparing for the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), which will provide a comprehensive framework for making sustainability reporting across various dimensions more transparent and comparable in the future. Adhering to these standards not only demonstrates the bank’s commitment to sustainability but also strengthens the trust of stakeholders and customers.
SOLUTION
Efficient sustainability reporting
To address these challenges, Volksbank Cologne Bonn collaborated with sustainability experts and the software solution provided by Code Gaia to implement efficient and transparent reporting in accordance with the German Sustainability Code (DNK). Additionally, comprehensive collection and analysis of sustainability data were conducted, along with support for identifying and implementing measures to reduce CO₂ emissions and enhance sustainability efforts.
Using Code Gaia for a long-term sustainability strategy and ESRS preparation
The primary objective of the collaboration was to develop accurate CO₂ accounting and DNK reporting, with a focus on GRI performance indicators. By utilizing the Code Gaia platform, Volksbank Cologne Bonn aimed to establish a long-term approach while also preparing for reporting in accordance with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS).
For Volksbank Cologne Bonn, it was particularly important to capture all key emission scopes (Scope 1, 2, and 3) in detail, where Code Gaia provided a clear advantage over other solutions. By automating data collection and processing, the bank was able to save resources, enhance data accuracy, and minimize error rates.
OUTLOOK
Disclosure of Sustainability Efforts
The successful implementation of Code Gaia has strengthened Volksbank Cologne Bonn’s position as a sustainable and responsible bank in the financial sector. A foundation for long-term emission reduction planning has been established, and the bank is now equipped to adopt the ESRS as a reporting standard in the future.
The bank can now not only manage its carbon footprint with precision but also report more effectively on its sustainability efforts. This enables it to make a significant contribution to environmental protection and social responsibility within the financial sector.