Barclaycard go green with the launch of Breathe

Barclaycard has announced plans to launch a credit card that donates 50% of its profits to environmental projects dedicated to reducing carbon emissions around the world. Barclaycard Breathe will donate a minimum of £1 million to environmental projects in its first year followed by 50% of profits from the card in subsequent years.

Projects could include the development of solar power, wind power and new energy reduction initiatives in the UK and overseas.

Barclaycard's chief executive, Antony Jenkins, said: "Barclaycard Breathe makes it easy for people to do their bit in the fight against climate change by offering incentives to make being green easier, and supporting projects around the world that help reduce carbon emissions."

Card users wanting to ease their environmental conscience will be able to apply for the green Breathe credit card when is is launched this summer.

Barclaycard Breathe will only issue online statements, and advertising for the credit card will only be done online.

When new cards are issued the old ones will go into a recycling scheme. The cards themselves will be made out of PETG, a more environmentally friendly alternative to current PVC cards.

In addition, Breathe cardholders will receive discounts and lower-rate borrowing when they buy certain green energy saving products or services, such as public transport tickets.