Barclays has announced a significant increase in its Sustainable Impact Capital investment mandate, aiming to reach GBP 175 million by 2025. This boost in funding is intended to sustain existing efforts and facilitate new investments, particularly focusing on carbon capture and hydrogen technologies. Despite facing criticism from climate activists for financing major polluters, Barclays has already invested GBP 84 million in environmental startups over the past two and a half years. The lender has emphasized its commitment to supporting clients as they transition to a low-carbon economy. This move brings Barclays in line with competitors such as HSBC and JPMorgan, who have set ambitious targets for aiding companies in their sustainability transitions. Banks' climate efforts have come under increasing scrutiny, with concerns raised by campaigners and politicians about the industry's pace in managing global warming risks and promoting a shift to cleaner energy. While there is consensus among financial institutions on the need to address the climate crisis, implementing changes in large financial entities with long-established structures poses challenges. Current sustainability offerings by banks are typically integrated into traditional lending products, with a notable growth in these products. Bloomberg estimates show a significant increase in the combined volumes of sustainability-rated debt instruments, highlighting a growing trend towards sustainable finance.