

E82: Topofinance: How banking is the secret to gigantic climate action
12 snips Mar 27, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Paul Moinester, founder of Topo Finance, reveals the shocking climate impact of traditional banking, where a mere $10,000 can emit as much CO2 as driving 10,000 miles. He emphasizes how corporations' banking emissions can dwarf their operational ones and advocates for switching to climate-friendly banks. Moinester introduces innovative solutions that combine profitability with sustainability, encouraging listeners to consider their financial choices as a form of climate action. Tune in for actionable insights!
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Banking's Hidden Climate Impact
- Bank deposits don't just sit idle; banks lend them, creating a large emissions footprint.
- This lending's climate impact has been historically overlooked due to lack of transparency.
How Lending Fuels Emissions
- Banks lend deposits to various sectors, including carbon-intensive ones like energy and manufacturing.
- This lending to fossil fuel industries significantly contributes to banks' overall emissions.
$10,000 and 10,000 Miles
- $10,000 in a major bank generates emissions comparable to driving 10,000 miles annually.
- Shifting $5,000 to a greener bank has a greater annual emissions reduction than going vegan.