Clear and Credible Standards for Sustainable Finance

Defining international best practice for labelling green entities and investments in key sectors

The Climate Bonds Standard and Certification Scheme is a voluntary labelling scheme for investments that tackle climate change. It ensures alignment with the goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. 

Our Certification Scheme covers general-purpose instruments, assets, and entities, with updated R&D definitions. Independent verification guarantees credibility, requiring 95% of proceeds to align with climate goals. Up to 5% of proceeds may fund projects or assets not fully aligned with eligibility criteria, provided they meet ICMA principles. 

The Climate Bonds Standard and Certification Scheme operates through dedicated working groups and is overseen by the Climate Bonds Standard Board, comprising institutional investors and environmental NGOs. The Standard Board reports to the Governors of the Climate Bonds Initiative, a registered charity in England and Wales.