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Before you go green

Five things charities should consider about green finance.

Green finance is becoming a vital funding pathway for UK charities looking to align their financial strategies with their mission. It is gaining momentum as a practical, values-driven approach to funding. 

Whether your organisation is aiming to reduce carbon emissions, access green funding for charitable projects, or invest reserves in line with ESG principles, green finance offers a powerful way to amplify your impact. It can help you build long-term resilience while contributing to the UK’s transition to a low-carbon, sustainable economy.

Before exploring green finance opportunities, there are a few considerations to explore:

 

1. Define your sustainability goals

A clear, shared vision is critical. Work with trustees and leadership to set measurable sustainability ambitions. These could include reducing operational emissions, supporting community green projects or transitioning to net zero.


2. Update your policies

Once you have established your goals, update your borrowing, investment and partnership policies. This will help get alignment across your organisation. And shows funders, donors and stakeholders you are serious about integrating sustainability into your operations.


3. Identify projects that need funding

Pinpoint specific projects where green finance can make an impact. This might include installing solar panels, retrofitting buildings with insulation, or creating an ethical investment strategy for endowments or reserves.


4. Start measuring impact now

A core part of green finance — particularly green loans — is being able to track and report outcomes. Begin measuring areas such as energy usage, carbon emissions or waste output. This builds the baseline for future funding applications and shows accountability.


5. Start a conversation

You do not have to do this alone. At CAF Bank, we are here to support UK charities every step of the way. Our relationship directors and business development teams are charity-sector specialists, dedicated to providing tailored advice and green finance solutions that align with your mission, values and long-term goals.


If you are considering loan finance, our Financing the Future guide will help you get started. 

Assets may be at risk if you do not keep up with repayments for a mortgage, loan or any other debt secured on them.


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CAF Bank Limited Registered office is 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent ME19 4JQ. Registered in England and Wales under number 1837656.