RAN Releases "Equator Principles Fact Sheet"

The environmental NGO RAN has released a fact sheet alleging that MUFG and Mizuho may be non-compliant with the Equator Principles and their own policies in their financing of the Rio Grande LNG project in Texas, citing a lack of stakeholder engagement with Indigenous communities.
Press ReleaseNQ 92/100出典：PR Times

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  • 📰 Published: May 21, 2026 at 03:52
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The environmental NGO Rainforest Action Network (RAN) has published a fact sheet accusing Japanese banks MUFG and Mizuho of violating the Equator Principles in their financing of the Rio Grande LNG project. The report highlights failures in stakeholder engagement, specifically the lack of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) from the local Carrizo/Comecrudo Tribe, whose sacred sites are impacted. Despite complaints filed through JaCER, the banks continue to fund the project's expansion, prompting RAN to demand an immediate halt to their support.

FAQ

What is the main accusation in RAN's fact sheet?

The fact sheet accuses MUFG and Mizuho of potentially violating the Equator Principles, an international standard for managing environmental and social risk in project finance, as well as their own internal policies, by funding the Rio Grande LNG project.

Which specific principle does RAN claim was violated?

RAN points to a potential violation of Principle 5, 'Stakeholder Engagement,' alleging that the project developer has not provided continuous consultation and has proceeded without the 'Free, Prior, and Informed Consent' (FPIC) of the local Carrizo/Comecrudo Tribe.

How are MUFG and Mizuho involved in the Rio Grande LNG project?

Both banks have provided significant financing for the project. For Phase 1, MUFG provided over $1.6 billion and Mizuho over $1.2 billion. They are also involved in financing and advisory roles for Phase 2.

What is the significance of the project's location?

The project, along with the adjacent Texas LNG facility, is planned on land that overlaps with the sacred sites of the Carrizo/Comecrudo Tribe, an Indigenous community in the Rio Grande Valley.

What actions is RAN demanding from the banks?

RAN is demanding that MUFG and Mizuho investigate the alleged Indigenous rights violations, consult with the community to provide remedy, and halt all future financial support for the project and the companies involved.

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