| Abstract [eng] |
The master’s thesis examines the importance and specifics of sustainability assessment in the context of the Baltic banking sector. The relevance of the research stems from the fact that there is currently no universal sustainability assessment method suitable for all banks, and that priorities and understanding of sustainability differ across countries. The object of the thesis is the sustainability assessment of banks operating in the Baltic States. The aim of the thesis is to evaluate the sustainability level of banks in the Baltic States. To achieve this aim, the following objectives were set: 1. To analyse the concept, history and importance of sustainability and its assessment. 2. To reveal how sustainability assessment developed in banking sector over the years and why is it important. 3. To evaluate empirical level of sustainability assessment of banking businesses and design a model for assessing sustainability of Baltic banking businesses. 4. Using the designed evaluation model, to perform an empirical analysis of sustainability assessment of banking businesses operating in Baltics region and identify the key factors that should be assessed when measuring such businesses’ sustainability. The theoretical part of the thesis discusses the concept of sustainability, its evolution, and the importance of its assessment, highlights the main sustainability assessment models, and emphasizes the significance of ESG (environmental, social, governance) criteria in the banking sector. The analytical part analyses the sustainability reports of major Baltic banks, formulates research statements, and develops a research model in which sustainability assessment is carried out through the perspective of employees. In the empirical part, using a qualitative research method (structured interviews with employees), it was found that employee engagement, understanding of sustainable practices, and the ability to identify greenwashing differ among bank employees in the Baltic States. The research showed that sustainability initiatives and the role of management are key factors driving sustainability integration in banks, while cultural differences influence employees’ attitudes and engagement. The thesis is 47 pages long, contains 11 tables, 6 figures, and 2 appendices. The results of the thesis suggest that, in order to achieve an objective sustainability assessment in Baltic banks, it is essential to consider employee opinions and ensure consistent trainings and implementation of sustainability initiatives. |
