Equator Principles

The Equator Principles is a framework for financial institutions to manage environmental
and social issues in project financing. The principles are intended to serve as
a common baseline for the implementation of individual, internal, environmental
and social procedures and standards for project financing activities across all
industry sectors globally. The Principles were developed and adopted by IFC and
20 of the world’s leading banks, and quickly became a global market standard
for availing project finance.

The EP applies globally, to all industry sectors and to four financial products.

1.     Project Finance Advisory Services

2.   Project Finance

3.   Project Related Corporate Loans

4.   Bridge Loans  

     The EPs have greatly increased the attention and focus on social/community standards and
responsibilities, including robust standards for indigenous peoples, labour
standards, and consultation with locally affected communities within the
Project Finance market. They have also promoted convergence around common
environmental and social standards.