Green Bond Dataset Methodology

The Green Bond Dataset (GBD) methodology establishes a science-based framework for screening self-labelled green debt instruments. To be included in the 'Aligned' list, a debt instrument must be self-labelled, have adequate public disclosure, and allocate 100% of net proceeds to green assets, with at least 90% meeting specific eligibility criteria. The methodology employs a three-step screening process: identification and pre-requisite checks, screening of green credentials against sector-specific definitions, and evaluation of the use of proceeds (UoP) threshold. Absolute exclusions apply to fossil fuel exploration, production, refining, and fossil fuel-based heat, cool, and electricity generation, regardless of the percentage of proceeds. The GBD allows for a 'margin of flexibility' of up to 10% for assets where alignment is uncertain or metrics are unavailable, and utilizes a two-year lookback period for complex expenditure assessments. While external reviews are recommended, they are not mandatory for GBD inclusion if equivalent information is disclosed. The document also distinguishes the GBD from the Climate Bonds Standard Certification scheme, noting that GBD inclusion is based on post-issuance screening of public data, whereas Certification is a voluntary pre-issuance application process.

• To qualify for the Green Bond Dataset (GBD), a financial instrument must meet three primary requirements: it must be a debt instrument (such as bonds, asset-backed securities, or loans), it must be self-labelled by the issuer as green or under similar nomenclature, and it must have sufficient public disclosure regarding the amount issued, issue date, maturity date, and use of proceeds (UoP).
• The GBD employs a strict threshold for the use of proceeds: 100% of net proceeds must be allocated to green assets, and a minimum of 90% must be directed specifically to aligned green assets, projects, activities, or expenditures.
• Certain activities are subject to absolute exclusions, meaning any allocation to these areas—even below 10%—results in the deal's exclusion. These include fossil fuel exploration, production, and refining; solid fossil fuel-based heat, cool, and electricity generation; and the transportation of fossil fuels.

APA

Climate Bonds Initiative (2024). Green Bond Dataset Methodology. https://www.climatebonds.net/files/content-images/Climate-Bonds_Green-Bond-Dataset-Methodology_April-2024.pdf

Chicago

Climate Bonds Initiative. Green Bond Dataset Methodology. 2024. https://www.climatebonds.net/files/content-images/Climate-Bonds_Green-Bond-Dataset-Methodology_April-2024.pdf.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=Climate Bonds Initiative |title=Green Bond Dataset Methodology |date=April 2024 |url=https://www.climatebonds.net/files/content-images/Climate-Bonds_Green-Bond-Dataset-Methodology_April-2024.pdf |access-date=17 August 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{climatebondsinitiative2024green, author = {{Climate Bonds Initiative}}, title = {{Green Bond Dataset Methodology}}, institution = {Climate Bonds Initiative}, year = {2024}, month = apr, url = {https://www.climatebonds.net/files/content-images/Climate-Bonds_Green-Bond-Dataset-Methodology_April-2024.pdf}, urldate = {2026-08-17}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }