The proceeds from the bond will be invested in projects that meet both ecological and social criteria. Priority areas include increasing the energy efficiency of existing buildings, expanding flood protection, modernizing rail infrastructure and stations, promoting public local and regional transport, or affordable housing. "These measures are crucial to provide a sustainable and future-proof infrastructure," said Schleritzko. The projects are selected by the Lower Austrian SDG Advisory Board (Sustainable Development Goals Advisory Board).
Pioneering Role: Lower Austria as the First Federal State with Sustainable Bonds
2-01-2025, 12:09
According to a statement released on Thursday, Lower Austria has issued a sustainable bond as the first administrative unit and the second instance after the federal government. The financial instrument introduced before the turn of the year had a volume of 500 million euros. The bond was oversubscribed three times. "The enormously high demand demonstrates the growing confidence in the financial stability of Lower Austria," commented Finance Councilor Ludwig Schleritzko (ÖVP).
This is not just about providing financial resources, emphasized Schleritzko: "Rather, we ensure that these resources have a positive impact on the quality of life of people in Lower Austria. It is a pioneering step for the future and a commitment to ecological and social responsibility." The bond is structured in collaboration with Deutsche Bank and Raiffeisen Bank as Joint Sustainability Coordinators. In addition, the framework for sustainable financing is validated by ISS Corporate Solutions, Inc. (ISS ESG) as an external auditor to ensure compliance with international standards.
(APA/Red.)
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