Page 13 - Green Finance 2024
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Green Loans and Sustainability-Linked Loans
Green loans are similar to green bonds but are structured as loan agreements. They are
used to finance or refinance projects with clear environmental benefits. Like green
bonds, green loans adhere to principles, notably the Green Loan Principles (GLP), which
were established to ensure consistency and integrity in the green loan market. Besides,
sustainability-linked loans (SLLs) are a variation of green loans. These loans link the
terms of the loan, typically the interest rate, to the borrower’s achievement of
predetermined sustainability performance targets. This structure encourages borrowers
to improve their sustainability practices.
Climate Bonds
Climate bonds are a subset of green bonds specifically focused on projects that address
climate change. This includes funding for renewable energy, energy efficiency,
sustainable transport, and other projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The
Climate Bonds Standard and Certification Scheme, managed by the Climate Bonds
Initiative, provides guidelines and certification for bonds that contribute to addressing
climate change.
Blue Bonds
Blue bonds are a relatively new type of bond designed to finance sustainable ocean and
marine projects. The Seychelles issued the world’s first sovereign blue bond in 2018,
which was used to support sustainable marine and fisheries projects. Blue bonds
represent a crucial instrument for channeling investment into the sustainable use and
conservation of marine resources.
Green Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
Green REITs are a form of real estate investment trust that invests in properties with
sustainability credentials, such as energy-efficient buildings or sustainable real estate
developments. Green REITs offer investors the opportunity to invest in real estate with
environmental benefits.
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