Scotiabank Jamaica Bank Cards Now Made From Recycled Plastic

Kingston, Jamaica  - January 13, 2025 – Scotiabank has commenced issuing new bank cards made from 85.5% recycled material. Clients with expired cards received their renewed cards on November 1, 2024. All new and reissued bank cards, including debit and credit cards, will also reflect an upgrade in security features by the removal of personally identifiable information from the front of the cards. This will limit potential exposure while clients conduct transactions.

Conventional bank cards are made from polyvinyl chloride acetate (PVC), which is considered a harmful plastic to the environment. Scotiabank has partnered with IDEMIA to manufacture its cards using recycled plastic and thereby reduce its carbon footprint which is a strategic priority for the organization. Not only will the redesigned cards positively impact the environment, but the change will also offer clients a safer medium through which to do business. One of the sustainable development goals (SDG) of the United Nations focuses on responsible consumption and production to which the initiative is aligned.

As a first step only new cards and cards for renewal will have the updated features, there will not be a recall of existing cards, which will remain functional until their natural expiration date occurs. Therefore, clients are not required to visit a branch to exchange their currently functioning cards. Scotiabank remains committed to achieving its climate action and net zero plan goals to reduce emissions negatively affecting the environment.