Guide: How to use the Green Finance Guide

 

Methodology 

The development of this Guide draws on a range of publicly available resources. The databases of financial instruments and case studies were informed by multiple existing catalogues, tools and studies.

 

Key sources include:

 

Additional sources include publications and data from the NAP Global Network, European Environment Agency (EEA), World Bank and others, all of which are referenced directly within the Guide. The collection, classification and analysis of data across all modules, including financial instruments, case studies and financing programmes was conducted by the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI). Typologies and filter categories were developed to ensure consistency, comparability and practical usability across the tool.

 

How to navigate the guide

Users can navigate the guide by filling out a central questionnaire that filters the main databases (Financial Instruments, Case Studies and Financing & Technical Assistance Programmes), based on their project needs.

Users can select one or multiple options per category; more specific filtering (i.e., fewer selected options) will return more targeted results.

 

Filters are organised into two parts:

  • Investment project characterisation: Sector; Climate action type (filterable information for main modules)
  • Module relevant filters as per different categories (check-boxes):
    • Financial Instruments: Instrument type; Modality; Source of finance; Category of blending; Instrument maturity; Investment readiness and risk
    • Case Studies: Region; City size; Investment size; Type of case study
    • Financiers and Financing programmes: Type of assistance; Eligibility for EU Member States

 

Note: At least one selection must be made in each category to generate results.

Once filters are selected, users must click the "Submit" button to apply them. The tool provides the most suitable financing instruments and mechanisms per category, based on the input provided by the user.

  • Green Finance – Structured financial activities (loans, debt mechanisms and investments) that promote environmentally sustainable outcomes
  • Financial Instruments – Contracts that represent assets, liabilities or equity and are used for raising capital, transferring risk or investing
  • Innovative Finance – Mechanisms that increase financial efficiency and mobilise private and public resources for green investments
  • Climate Change Mitigation – Reducing greenhouse gas emissions to prevent long-term climate impacts
  • Climate Change Adaptation – Enhancing preparedness and resilience to climate-related risks
  • Debt – A financial obligation allowing the issuer to raise capital (e.g., bonds, loans)
  • Public Finance – Funding sourced from national or local government budgets
  • Equity Finance – Raising capital by selling shares, often used for high-risk climate projects
  • International Finance (Grants) – Direct monetary assistance from global institutions