UOB Thailand: 25 Years Of Continuing Commitment To Support Thailand Through The Rise Of Asean

The result? Thousands of kilogrammes of waste were recycled, a clear demonstration of UOB’s ability to instil eco-conscious habits in its workplace culture.

By setting clear policies and practices, the bank demonstrates its willingness to uphold the sustainability standard within its walls. Its focus on employee involvement reinforces its belief that everyone can play a role in reducing waste and the corporate carbon footprint in general.

UOB’s waste management initiatives did not stop there. In 2022, the “Race to Zero Waste” campaign galvanised employees to take their waste reduction efforts to new heights.

Under the project, a “champion” was appointed for each floor of UOB’s offices, who organised teams to recycle and reduce as much waste as possible. These grassroots efforts not only helped the bank cut its waste by 19% in the first year, but also garnered external recognition. UOB Thailand was honoured by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) as a corporate model for Waste Management in the bank category, the only financial institution to achieve the “Zero Waste Organisation” status.

UOB’s innovative approach to waste recycling gained momentum through a partnership with renowned Thai artist Wishulada Panthanuvong.

The collaboration resulted in the “Turning Trash into Treasured Art” exhibition, where discarded branch uniforms—nearly 5,000 pieces—were transformed into an art installation at UOB Plaza Bangkok.

The project called attention to the environmental costs of fast fashion, with the upcycled uniforms repurposed into lifestyle products such as rucksacks, tote bags, and water bottle holders.

Proceeds from the sales of these products, amounting to 500,000 baht, were donated to the Angel Miracle Project of the Children’s Hospital Foundation, further amplifying the project’s social impact.

Through these initiatives, UOB Thailand demonstrates that sustainability is not only about environmental responsibility but also about building a strong sense of community. The bank’s commitment to sustainability begins internally, proving that meaningful change starts within the organisation. By engaging employees in waste reduction and green workplace initiatives, UOB ensures that every action today contributes to a cleaner, greener future.

As UOB continues to lead by example, it sets a standard for corporate sustainability that influences both its employees and the communities it serves, ensuring a lasting impact for future generations.