About this report

Challenges and limitations

This report about Rentenbank’s alignment with the 1,5-degree target represents a snapshot of our current state of knowledge. While the data, methods, and instruments employed for this purpose are recognised and science-based, they are in different stages of development.

The availability, precision, and depth of detail of the data used for this report vary by sector. Because we do not yet have any emissions data on our customers, the presentation of financed emissions is based on the best possible estimates using currently available data and methods.

We use science-based reference scenarios to establish emission reduction targets. With regard to agriculture in particular, we also rely on the guidance afforded by the national sector targets set out in the German Federal Climate Action Act.

The customer emissions financed by us are considerably higher than the emissions from our own internal operations. Whereas we can directly influence decisions concerning our own operational emissions, we are reliant on our customers’ own initiative to reduce their emissions. Therefore, our ability to achieve our climate targets is highly dependent on the actions of independent parties, which are beyond our direct control.