The Determinants of Green Bond Issuance in the European Union

Abstract

Green bonds are a new financial tool that has developed rapidly in the context of climate change risks. Their proceeds are used to finance only environmentally friendly projects. This paper aims to examine the determinant factors of the green bonds issue in the context of the European Union countries. Using linear regression, we explore the impact of environmental, social, governance, and macroeconomic indicators on the level of green bond issues in the period 2014–2019. The results reveal that rating, ESG index; fiscal balance, inflation rate, and population have a significant impact and lead to a higher volume of green bond issuances. Our findings provide valuable insights into the development of the green bond market.