Emissions

Goal update

Baseline (2017-2019): 53,623 MtCO₂e

2025 – July: 25,643 MtCO₂e (52% reduction)

Goal: 5,362 MtCO₂e

Metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent for Scope 1 and 2

Pathway to Net Zero

In 2021, First National conducted an extensive review of strategies to achieve net zero. A focus team of experts ideated and prioritized a number of different strategies to reduce emissions. Listed below are the strategies with a proposed completion date and associated annual impact.

Interior LED replacement projects, 100% of remaining systems by 2030, -2,200 MtCO₂e
Exterior LED replacements, 100% of remaining systems by 2030, -500 MtCO₂e
Update building management control systems, 100% of remaining systems by 2030, -100 MtCO₂e
Electrify boilers, 100% of systems as they reach the end of operation or by 2050, -300 MtCO₂e
Upgrade fan wall systems, 100% by 2035, -1,100 MtCO₂e
Efficiency gains from occupancy, 100% by 2030, -8,900 MtCO₂e
Renewable energy certificates (RECs), or virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA), explore as needed

First National will also benefit from the grid adopting more carbon-neutral practices, as it will decrease the emissions factor used to calculate their overall impact. Overall, First National expects to reduce emissions in the built environment by approximately 67% by 2035 and 89% by 2050. To achieve carbon neutrality First National will either need to exceed these results or pursue carbon offsets, VPPAs, or another strategy that leads to net-zero emissions.

Renewable Energy Certificate Purchasing Through the Omaha Public Power District

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) represent proof that electricity was generated from renewable energy sources and fed into the grid. By purchasing RECs, FNBO supports renewable energy development and offsets the environmental impact of its electricity usage.

FNBO is purchasing RECs through OPPD’s REC Program, ensuring that 100% of the Tower’s electricity usage is offset by renewable energy. From January through December 2024, FNBO purchased enough RECs to offset the Tower’s total electricity usage of 8,059,021 kWh (5,874 MWh). This commitment has avoided approximately 3,054 metric tons of CO₂e, equivalent to the annual emissions of 790 passenger vehicles or 455 homes’ energy use for a year.

Through its REC purchases, FNBO is making meaningful progress toward its sustainability goals and supporting a cleaner, greener future.

Recent Efforts

Halfway to net-zero emissions

FNBO continues to make significant strides to reduce the emissions impact of its operations. The bank has eliminated an impressive 26,982 MtCO₂e emissions from its footprint between 2019 and 2024. Today, the bank is over 50% of the way to its goal of net zero by 2035!

Tower Transformation

First National’s Tower has been upgraded with new mechanical equipment and building systems, which will improve energy efficiency.

LED Replacements

First National has converted 85% of locations to use LED exterior lights. Additionally, 62% of all locations’ interior lighting has been converted to LED.

Community Solar

FNB entered into a community solar agreement for our Illinois branches. Thanks to this agreement, 70% of our electricity usage in this state will come from solar energy.

Fuel Cell Decommissioning

In 2020, First National decommissioned the natural gas fuel cell at the Tech Center. This change led to a reduction of 500 metric tons of carbon dioxide from natural gas annually.

Fan Wall Retrofit

First National recently replaced a fan wall in the First National Tower with a series of smaller fans. These fans can more efficiently condition the space. Savings vary dramatically based on total horsepower, but currently identified fan wall replacements can save between 200,000 – 2,000,000 kWh annually.

Upcoming Projects

LED Replacements

First National plans to convert all lighting to LEDs by 2030.

Renewable Energy Solutions

First National is continuing to explore onsite and offsite renewable energy sources to reduce overall energy emissions.

Fan Wall Replacements

First National plans to replace fan walls with more efficient systems by 2030. These systems can significantly reduce energy consumption in the Tower, Tech Center, and Business Park.

How to support this goal while you work

Turn off lights when you leave a room or in empty areas
Unplug or turn off equipment when not in use (computers, coffee makers, printers, chargers, etc.)
Take the stairs if possible