ICMA Sustainable Finance Second Quarter 2021

Issuance in the sustainable bond market in the first quarter showed a sharp increase over 2020 trends. There was a continuation of strong sustainability and social bond issuances alongside green bonds. 2021 themes include the global recognition of sustainable bond standards (supported by the ICMA) and the renewed interest in sustainability in the US market. There is also a multiplication of taxonomy initiatives globally and a strong interest in biodiversity focused investments. The GBP Executive Committee is making progress with an ambitious agenda for the year, evidenced by additional Sustainability-Linked Bond related guidance released in February.