Assessing The Awareness And Understanding Of Green Finance Incentives Among Bank Employees

Abstract

The growing significance of environmental sustainability in the global financial ecosystem has stimulated the integration of green finance incentives across banking organizations. This study examines the awareness and comprehension of green finance processes among workers of four leading Indian banks: the State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Canara Bank. The research seeks to identify disparities in knowledge dissemination, policy exposure, and practical engagement with green finance instruments, such as green bonds, sustainable lending products, and regulatory incentives, by examining both public sector (SBI, Canara) and private sector (HDFC, ICICI) institutions. The research used a mixed-methods strategy, utilizing a structured questionnaire distributed to 100 employees (25 from each bank), with comprehensive semi-structured interviews with 12 officers in mid- to senior-level managerial positions. The quantitative aspect evaluates awareness levels, training exposure, and policy knowledge, whereas the qualitative interviews explore perceptions, institutional support, and obstacles to implementation. Key findings indicate that private sector employees demonstrate slightly greater awareness of particular green finance products, primarily attributable to more effective training programs and clearer organizational communication methods. Nevertheless, public sector banks exhibit a more robust adherence to regulatory compliance, albeit their internal capacity-building programs are somewhat constrained. A substantial knowledge deficiency was recognized across all banks, especially among front-line personnel, underscoring an immediate necessity for focused educational and awareness initiatives. The research shows that although green finance is becoming strategically significant in Indian banking, its incorporation into staff knowledge systems is inconsistent. The study suggests structured training programs, internal policy standardization, and greater coordination with regulatory agencies to develop a better informed workforce capable of driving sustainable financial goals. These findings hold significant implications for policymakers, HR strategists, and sustainability officers in the banking sector.