World Bank Green Bonds

About World Bank Green Bonds

In 2008, the World Bank launched the "Strategic Framework for Development and Climate Change" to help stimulate and coordinate public and private sector activity to combat climate change. The World Bank Green Bonds is an example of the kind of innovation the World Bank is trying to encourage within this framework.

Benefits to Investors

World Bank Green Bonds are an opportunity to invest in climate solutions through a high quality credit fixed income product.

• The triple-A credit quality of the Green Bonds is the same as for any other World Bank bonds.


• Positive environmental returns by supporting World Bank projects addressing mitigation and adaptation solutions for climate change.

World Bank Green Bond Project Selection Criteria

Eligible projects are selected by World Bank environment specialists and meet specific criteria for low-carbon development.

Examples of eligible mitigation projects are:

Solar and wind installations; Funding for new technologies that permit significant reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; Greater efficiency in transportation, including fuel switching and mass transport; Waste management (methane emissions) and construction of energy-efficient buildings; Carbon reduction through reforestation and avoided deforestation.

Examples of eligible adaptation projects are:

Protection against flooding (including reforestation and watershed management); Food security improvement and implementing stress-resilient agricultural systems (which slow down deforestation); Sustainable forest management and avoided deforestation.