Financial innovation is much underutilised in dealing with the climate threat, both at the micro- and macro-levels. At the micro-level, for example, it is still impossible in some countries to acquire even a simple mortgage with which to overcome the upfront capital cost of microgeneration. At the macro level, for example, there is considerable untapped potential for climate bonds.
How better to mobilise a low-carbon future rapidly than the large-scale issuance of long-term debt to overcome medium-term investment barriers to achieving economies of scale in manufacturing? How better to find a way for pension-fund trustees to manoeuvre around the current dysfunctional definition of fiduciary responsibility?