Citibank Korea has vowed to take the lead in protecting the natural environment in Seoul as part of its social contribution activities.

The local branch of the U.S.-based bank has carried out multiple environment-related social contribution activities since its establishment. The bank won the Seoul City award for its voluntary work for the environment in 2010.

The bank’s most recent cooperative pact with Seoul City regarding the environment was signed on May 22. Seoul City, which has likewise been running an environment preservation campaign called “Blooming Seoul,” is an active supporter of Citibank’s environmental protection campaign.

The bank has so far forged multiple partnerships with the municipal unit of environment policy of Seoul, the bank said in a statement. In 2009, the bank employees organized “Mount Namsan Supporters” to protect flora in the state-run, outdoor greenhouse on Mount Namsan. In addition, the employees visit the mountain every quarter to fertilize the pine woods, remove weeds, and nurture wild flora.

Among the oldest environment-related campaigns by Citibank Korea is its decade-old “Protect Seoul Forest Campaign” in Gwangjin District, eastern Seoul, which involves planting trees and fertilizing soil.

Besides its back-to-green movement, Citibank Korea has participated in the children’s “Hangang River and Nature” program since April. The bank’s officials participating in this regular volunteer program have helped city-born children experience nature, such as by feeding silkworms and collecting mulberries.

On the global level, Citibank Korea has joined Citigroup's global observation of the annual “Citi Global Community Day” since 2006. The local activities of this global event involve cleaning the environment surrounding the Hangang River and Danghyeon Stream in Nowon District as well as painting frescoes on the walls of isolated areas.

By Chung Joo-won (joowonc@heraldcorp.com)