Interdependenzen zwischen den drei Nachhaltigkeitsdimensionen bei Banken in der Schweiz und in Liechtenstein – unter Berücksichtigung von internen Transparenz- und Steuerungsmechanismen

This thesis pursues two main objectives: Firstly, to provide an industry-specific orientation guide to identify institution-specific interdependencies between the three sustainability di-mensions at banks in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Secondly, recommendations for trans-parency and control mechanisms are formulated to enable these interdependencies to be dealt with appropriately. A detailed analysis of these interdependencies appears particularly relevant against the background of empirical studies that demonstrate the obstructive effect of trade-offs in contrast to the beneficial effect of synergies on the achievement of sustaina-bility goals.
In the first step, the context-specific interdependencies at banks are divided into trade-offs and synergies. These are then correlated with each other in order to show the potential for transforming trade-offs into synergies. Based on this, transparency and control mechanisms are identified and systematically presented that can be used to both recognize and effectively manage these interdependencies.
This research utilises a qualitative research approach based on expert interviews in order to gain empirical insights. The results obtained are then integrated into bank-specific strategic and operational processes. In addition, general recommendations for action are formulated to support banks in adapting their institution-specific processes. This includes the identifica-tion, creation of transparency and management of interdependencies at both company and product level. Exemplary use cases are presented to demonstrate practical applicability.
The models developed are intended to support banks in realizing an effective transformation to a sustainable business model, taking into account the interdependencies between the sus-tainability dimensions. Furthermore, banks should fulfill their role in channeling financial re-sources into areas that promote sustainable development.