After controversial statements on climate policy from management, the major British bank HSBC, under CEO Noel Quinn, is now trying to smooth things over.

Quinn said in a post on the LinkedIn careers network over the weekend that his institute will not be dissuaded from its plan to help the world economy reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

His statement found support from several HSBC bankers such as the head of wealth management, Nuno Matos.

Recent comments by Stuart Kirk, Global Head of Sustainable Investments, are inconsistent with the bank's strategy and do not reflect senior management's views.

Kirk said Thursday at an industry conference that central banks, among others, are exaggerating the financial risks of climate change.

He drew criticism from climate protectors.

"Fools Who Tell About the End of the World"

According to the Financial Times, citing those in the know, Kirk was suspended for his comments.

An internal investigation is ongoing.

In addition to criticizing central banks and the financial industry for worrying too much about climate change, Kirk complained that he kept dealing with "some weirdos telling me about the end of the world," Bloomberg reported.

Climate change is not a financial risk to worry about," Kirk said Thursday in a 15-minute presentation at a Financial Times conference.

Speaking to former British central bank governor Mark Carney, he said he understood he had many, many years to go before he retired from central banking.

Since this other must outbid.

Because of the climate risks, banks neglected more pressing problems, such as the crypto scene attacking the financial industry, American regulation, a China problem, an imminent real estate crisis, rising interest rates and inflation.

But he should always deal with something that will only happen in 20 or 30 years - since the proportionality was completely out of joint.

Humanity should focus on adapting to a changing environment, Kirk said.

"Who cares if in 100 years Miami will be twenty feet below sea level.

Amsterdam has been doing this for ages.

“Statements by an Individual”

Nicolas Moreau, chief asset manager at HSBC, dismissed Kirk's allegations.

The comments in no way reflected the views of HSBC.

Consider climate change one of the most serious threats to the planet and commit to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Celine Herweijer, chief sustainability officer at HSBC Group, also said Kirk's comments were not at all the opinion of the company, but were made by an individual, she told Bloomberg.

Climate change is a top issue for HSBC.