ABSTRACT

This chapter describes the central features of green bonds as well as how their market developed during its short history of less than ten years. It discusses whether and to what extent green bonds really help to make the world more sustainable and 'greener'. The chapter looks at both the benefits and the costs linked with engaging in the green bond field, from the issuer's point of view as well as from the investor's. It shows that almost any investor stands to benefit with the green bonus. A management aimed at putting more emphasis on environmental, social and governance topics, issuing a green bond may be a suitable project in order to influence one's own organisation. During the COP21 Conference in Paris, in December 2015 the 'Green Infrastructure Investment Coalition' was launched. Its aim is to support the financing of a rapid transition to a low-carbon and climate resilient economy.