The firm said that the framework will help it achieve its ambitious climate targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions with 42% by 2030, in line with the Paris Agreement’s ambition to limit global warming to 1.5°C.

The roadmap to reach the targets has been validated and approved by the Science Based Targets initiative.

'The gravity of the climate crisis calls for real action from the global community. We are committed to take a leading role in the efforts of transitioning the property sector to a low-carbon and environmentally sustainable society.

'The combined green and sustainability-linked framework enables us to allow investors to be part of this transition,' said Adam Lindh, head of treasury at Heimstaden.

The green financing element of the framework identifies three eligible categories for future investments: development or acquisition of buildings, major renovations of existing buildings, and energy efficiency measures.

The sustainability-linked financing element specifies a sustainability performance target for the key performance indicator relating to mentioned greenhouse gas emission target.

ESG rating agency Sustainalytics concluded in a second party opinion that Heimstaden Bostad’s green and sustainability-linked financing framework is credible and impactful, and aligns with the four core components of the green bond principles 2021, green loan principles 2021, sustainability-linked bond principles 2020, and sustainability-linked loan principles 2022.

Sustainalytics also believes that the activities and projects to be financed under the framework will be carried out in alignment with the EU Taxonomy’s minimum safeguards.