Understanding sustainable finance: Impact and significance

Sponsored by TBS Education 

In today's dynamic financial landscape, the integration of sustainability principles into traditional finance practices has emerged as a pivotal trend. This shift towards sustainable finance is not merely a response to growing environmental and social concerns but represents a fundamental reimagining of the role of finance in driving positive change.  

Choosing a master's degree in sustainable finance, such as the Master’s in Sustainable Financial Management with Data Analytics offered by TBS Education, allows you to align your education with your values while enabling you to pursue exciting career opportunities in areas such as green banking, impact investing, and sustainable portfolio management.  

Graduates with expertise in sustainable finance are highly sought after by employers seeking to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world while contributing to global sustainability goals. 

Read on to discover more about green, sustainable finance and why you should consider studying a degree in this area. 

What is green finance and why is it important? 

Green finance refers to financial products and services that support environmentally sustainable projects and initiatives. It encompasses various instruments, such as loans, bonds, and investments, that are directed towards projects and companies aiming to reduce their carbon footprint, mitigate climate change, conserve natural resources, and promote environmental sustainability. 

By moving towards a more sustainable financial system, green finance contributes to the fight against climate change, and plays a vital role in advancing sustainable development goals, including those outlined in the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

Examples of green finance 

• Green bonds: These are bonds specifically issued to finance projects with environmental benefits  

• Green loans: Similar to green bonds, green loans are specifically designated for environmentally sustainable projects (e.g. renewable energy, eco-friendly infrastructure) 

• Sustainable investments: This involves investing in companies or funds that prioritise environmental sustainability and social responsibility.   

• Green funds: These are investment funds that specifically focus on environmentally sustainable companies or projects, investing in a diversified portfolio of assets, including stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments, with an emphasis on companies committed to environmental sustainability. 

• Environmental risk assessment: Green finance also involves evaluating and managing environmental risks associated with investments and financial activities, assessing the potential impact of climate change and other factors. 

What to expect from a sustainable finance degree 

The Master’s in Sustainable Financial Management with Data Analytics offered by TBS Education is designed to aid young professionals seeking to pursue a career in finance or accounting who are passionate about sustainability.  

Students are able to put theory into practice during an optional four-to-six-month internship as well as through practical workshops, business simulations and a consulting project for a real-life company.  

Taught by internationally renowned faculty, the programme also includes an online, 20-hour module aimed at assisting you with passing the exam required for a certificate in ESG Investing, provided by the prestigious CFA Institute. This certificate ensures you graduate with the technical knowledg required to work in the fast-growing field of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing.  

This focus on skills development and experiential learning goes some way to explaining why more than 97 percent of the MSc’s graduates find employment within four months of graduation. 

How can I make a difference with an MSc Sustainable Financial Management degree? 

• Work to reduce climate change: Play a crucial role in financing projects and initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and adapting to the impacts of climate change.  

• Promote environmental sustainability: Encourage investments in projects and companies that prioritise environmental sustainability and finance initiatives such as renewable energy development, energy efficiency improvements, sustainable agriculture, and conservation efforts. 

• Harness data analytics to drive innovation: Use the skills acquired over your degree to help with the development of innovative solutions that can accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy through investments in renewable energy, clean technologies, and sustainable infrastructure. 

• Meet Sustainable Development Goals: By supporting investments that are aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals – in areas such as clean energy, sustainable infrastructure, affordable housing, and access to clean water and sanitation – you can help contribute to poverty alleviation, social equity, and inclusive economic growth.