As part of a partnership on Tori’s Instagram profile, we found out more about why banking sustainably is important for her and what she’d like her money to support.     

What motivated you to switch to a Triodos current account?

I was searching for a new bank that aligned with my ethics. Sadly, most major banks are tied to fossil fuels. Despite committing to the Paris Agreement, trillions of dollars are being funnelled into unethical industries. I believe that switching banks is one of the most powerful things one can do to take climate action.

How do you feel about paying £3 a month for your account?

While it’s not usual for most big banks to charge a monthly fee, there’s a reason that’s the case.  So to me, paying £3 for an ethical bank is a no brainer really. Knowing that my money is only being invested into sustainable and ethical projects makes it worth it! 
[Find out more about why we have a monthly charge for the Triodos current account in this article.]

Why's it important to you that your bank supports your values?

While I believe that the climate crisis is a complex issue which is heavily tied to oppressive systems, it’s important to recognise that you can campaign for system change while taking individual actions. The two are not mutually exclusive. As such I do what I can within my means to make my lifestyle more ethical, and thankfully switching your bank is one of the easiest things you can do. I’m also fortunate enough to occupy quite a specific niche online and I want to be able to influence folks to switch their banks too.

How important is it to know where your money goes?

It’s extremely important knowing where my money goes, as after all I’ll be inheriting a complicated future. I want to do everything I can to ensure that I’m not contributing to our planet’s further demise and further harming marginalised people. But I also respect the fact that we need to push for system change and that we shouldn’t necessarily put the pressure on sole individuals to save the planet when 100 companies are responsible for 71% of emissions.

How do you feel about the current banking sector?

I believe that the financial sector as a whole isn’t transparent enough and is not accountable for their contributions to the climate crisis. That’s why it’s great that banks like Triodos are paving the way and showing us that finance can be used for good. I think it also allows people to trust that there are institutions who have their best interests at heart.

What sectors in society would you most like your money to support?

For me, environmental justice is not only about supporting our physical environments but also people and especially society’s most marginalised. I want to see my money going towards projects that empower local communities and allow for a just green transition.