In line with best market practices and the latest publications of the International Capital Market Association (Sustainability Bond Guidelines, Green Bond Principles, Social Bond Principles) and the Loan Market Association (Green Loan Principles and Social Loan Principles), this update reflects the ambitions set out in the group's strategic plan launched in 2023, “Lead the Future”.
The Sustainable Financing Framework focuses on sustainable investments in the Orange's core business, through 8 categories of eligible projects, out of which 3 targeting environmental objectives and 5 targeting social objectives, as presented below:
- Energy efficiency
- Renewable energy
- Circular economy
- Deployment of optic fiber networks in areas at risk of digital exclusion
- Deployment of mobile networks in areas at risk of digital exclusion
- Digital skills
- Supporting financial and social integration
- Supporting entrepreneurship
The Sustainable Financing Framework continues to manage sustainable bonds and now includes sustainable loans. Orange will be able to refinance projects whose expenses were incurred in the 3 years preceding the issuance of the sustainable financing and Orange will have to allocate the funds within 24 months.
Sustainalytics has issued an independent Second-Party Opinion on the Framework, confirming its alignment with market practices and its contribution to sustainable development.
The Sustainable Financing Framework and the Second-Party Opinion are available on Orange’s website.