National Trust Bank Better - Drop Barclays

The National Trust is a cherished and respected British institution. Few organisations contribute as much to the conservation of our countryside and heritage. It is therefore deeply concerning that the National Trust continues to bank with Barclays, an institution that finances the destruction of the very environments we strive to protect.

Barclays is the largest funder of fossil fuels in Europe. Since the Paris Agreement was signed in 2016, Barclays has provided $235 billion to fossil fuel companies through bonds, loans, and share underwriting. In addition, much of Barclays’ so-called “sustainable finance” is directed towards further pipeline and oil expansion projects.

This comes at a critical time when the International Energy Agency has made it clear that there must be no new fossil fuel expansions if we are to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Barclays’ substantial financial support for the fossil fuel industry poses a significant threat to British ecosystems and the wellbeing of future generations.

We urge the National Trust to set a leading example for other UK charities. We call on the National Trust to deposit the funds of its donors and members in institutions that invest in making the UK a more beautiful, healthier, and sustainable place to live.