New, more environmentally friendly cards

Going one step further in a changing world

Until now, bank cards, which are used on a daily basis, have been primarily made of PVC(1) (a plastic material derived from oil). In order to reduce the environmental impact of these cards, BGL BNP Paribas has decided to replace PVC with PLA (polylactic acid) This is a more environmentally friendly and sustainable material produced using non-food corn.

Our new cards therefore contain 84% PLA. They have retained all the same features and meet the same security standards. The remaining 16% comprises the card’s chip, magnetic strip and protective films.

A longer life span to reduce waste

Our entire range of credit cards (Visa Classic, Mastercard Gold, Mastercard Platinum and Mastercard Elite) are now produced using PLA.

In order to reduce the volume of waste generated by expired cards, BGL BNP Paribas has also decided to further space out the card renewal frequency. The validity period of bank cards is therefore being increased from three to five years.

Once your current card reaches the end of its validity period, it will automatically be replaced with a PLA card. As a result, no action is required from you: your new card will be sent straight to your letter box.

A bank committed to a more responsible world

For several years, BGL BNP Paribas has been on a path to reduce its environmental footprint.

The initiatives undertaken by the bank focus on three main pillars:

• supporting our clients in their transition;
• contributing to project financing through corporate philanthropy;
• reducing our environmental footprint and bolstering our commitment as a responsible employer.

Replacing our bank cards is one aspect of this strategy.

Good to know

Each year, BGL BNP Paribas publishes a CSR report summarising all of the initiatives taken to create a more sustainable economy. This report can be viewed on our website.