Search Climate Insights Directory

This report by the Climate Bonds Initiative evaluates the current state of net-zero disclosures among global banks, identifying significant gaps in comparability, scope, and alignment with 1.5°C pathways. Based on a stocktake of reference studies and an analysis of five Global Systemically Important Banks (G-SIBs), the report argues that current claims of net-zero alignment often lack the necessary transparency and ambition to effectively support the energy transition.

This guide by RMI proposes a "multi-level engagement" model for banks to maximize climate impact by coordinating efforts across client, sector, and policy levels. Based on an 'Alignment Forum' workshop involving 44 sustainable finance bankers from 17 global banks, the document argues that siloed engagement is often ineffective and that sustainability teams must act as the central coordinating body to align internal stakeholders and drive real-economy decarbonization.

This report introduces a portfolio-led approach designed to help banks translate net-zero decarbonization commitments into credible, robust action by providing a framework to assess sectors, geographies, asset classes, and business units.

This briefing by the Climate Policy Initiative examines the development of green banking in China, highlighting the role of the 'Big Four' state-owned banks and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC). It analyzes the growth of green credit portfolios, the effectiveness of top-down policy incentives from the People's Bank of China (PBoC), and the financial performance of green loans compared to traditional loans. The document also identifies systemic barriers to scaling green finance, including insufficient risk modeling and the perceived trade-off between green investment and short-term profitability.

This research paper outlines a three-step framework ("plan/review, decide, implement") to help banks, particularly those in China, reduce and eliminate their coal exposure. It emphasizes that unabated coal use for power must drop from 36% in 2022 to 3% by 2035 to meet the 1.5°C goal. The paper argues that a holistic approach covering the entire coal value chain and all financial instruments is necessary, suggesting that international collaboration and increased transparency will provide Chinese banks with a competitive advantage in the energy transition.