Triodos

Triodos refers to a group of financial institutions that operate on the principle of ethical banking. These banks focus on transparency and invest in companies and projects that contribute positively to society and the environment. Their investment criteria typically exclude sectors such as fossil fuels, arms manufacturing, and gambling. Instead, they prioritize areas like renewable energy, organic agriculture, social housing, and fair trade.

The concept of triodos banking originated in the Netherlands with Triodos Bank, founded in 1980. Since then, similar institutions have emerged in other countries, including Belgium, Spain, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. These banks aim to provide customers with an alternative to conventional banking, where their money is used to support sustainable and ethical initiatives.

Triodos banks often have a strong emphasis on their social and environmental impact, regularly publishing reports detailing where their investments are directed. They seek to build long-term relationships with both their customers and the organizations they finance, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. The term "triodos" itself is derived from the Greek word "triodos," meaning a place where three roads meet, symbolizing the convergence of financial, social, and environmental considerations.