Bank of New Hampshire Launches Eco-Friendly Debit Cards

Laconia, New Hampshire – August 9, 2022 – Bank of New Hampshire is proud to announce that we are one of the first financial institutions in the country to offer an eco-friendly, biodegradable debit card.

Bank of New Hampshire’s new, eco-friendly debit cards are made of 84% Polylactic Acid (PLA), a bio-sourced, renewable material made from non-food corn. It is non-petroleum-based and non-toxic if incinerated. While the Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) used to make traditional debit cards takes approximately four-hundred years to break down, PLA card biodegrades in approximately six months*.

A biodegradable card can be identified by the PLA “leaf” symbol on the back of the card.  In August, all Bank of New Hampshire offices will begin issuing the new debit cards on site.  Eventually all reissued debit cards sent by mail will also be biodegradable. 

“Plastic waste is having a devastating impact on our environment,” stated Eric Carter, Senior Vice President – Digital Solutions & Innovation Officer for Bank of New Hampshire. “Now is the time for Bank of New Hampshire to take the lead and become one of the first financial institutions to offer an eco-friendly, biodegradable debit card. As a New Hampshire based community bank, we have a key role to play when it comes to promoting green initiatives and building a better tomorrow.”

Eco-friendly debit cards offer Bank of New Hampshire customers the same customer experience as existing debit cards. They meet all of MasterCard’s quality standards, are indistinguishable from a traditional PVC debit card, and continue to offer EMV and Contactless technology.

Bank of New Hampshire is proud to be part of creating a sustainable future and community. We aspire to remain an independent mutual financial institution, delivering innovative solutions and exceptional service, while assisting our employees, customers and communities to build brighter futures.

Bank of New Hampshire, founded in 1831 provides deposit, lending and wealth management products and services to families and businesses throughout New Hampshire and southern Maine. With 21 banking offices and assets exceeding $2 billion, Bank of New Hampshire is the oldest and one of the largest independent banks in the state. Bank of New Hampshire is a mutual organization, focused on the success of the bank’s customers, communities and employees, rather than stockholders.  For more information, call 1.800.832.0912 or visit www.BNH.bank.

*As certified against EN13432 under the right conditions.

Photo caption: A biodegradable card can be identified by the PLA “leaf” symbol on the back of the card