Balder launches a new framework for green and social financing
Fastighets AB Balder has introduced a new and expanded Green and Social Financing Framework. The framework aims to fund projects that contribute to reduced environmental impact and promote positive societal development. It replaces previous green frameworks and is based on environmentally certified buildings, ambitious goals for energy consumption and affordable rental housing.
“It feels very positive and like a natural development that Balder’s social engagement is now also reflected in our financing strategy. Our objective is to increase the number of buildings that are energy-efficient and environmentally certified, ensuring they meet the framework’s criteria. This approach benefits the environment, our tenants, and the company as a whole,” says Sustainability Manager Klara Appelqvist.
“Balder’s Green and Social Framework strengthens the connection between the company’s sustainability work and its financing activities, which we believe will be well received by the market. So far, we are one of the few Nordic issuers in our sector with a combined green and social financing framework.”
Balder's first green framework was presented in 2019 and updated in 2023. Ahead of 2025, the framework has been further developed to include buildings aligned with the EU Taxonomy or environmentally certified, in line with ICMA’s Green Bond Principles 2021. The framework has also been expanded to enable the issuance of social bonds in accordance with ICMA’s Social Bond Principles 2023, focusing on affordable rental housing in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas.
The framework has been reviewed by ISS Corporate Solutions, which has issued a second opinion with a rating of “positive” – the highest possible outcome. This assessment indicates that Balder’s framework is expected to contribute positively to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda.
Balder will publish a Green and Social Financing Impact Report annually with an account of how the funds have been used.
More information about Balder’s Green and Social Financing Framework is available at balder.se.
For further information, please contact:
Klara Appelqvist, Sustainability Manager, tel. 031-351 83 86, klara.appelqvist@balder.se
Ewa Wassberg, CFO, tel. +46 (0)31-351 83 99, ewa.wassberg@balder.se