As governments and companies seek to meet global targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, investor appetite has risen for so-called green loans and bonds.

Both are used to fund projects which have clear environmental benefits, such as renewable energy, low-carbon transport or sustainable buildings.

Macquarie said there was particularly strong interest for its loan from Asia.

Macquarie also said it is the first financial institution to issue a green loan under green loan principles developed by the Asia Pacific Loan Market Association (APLMA) in March.

Under APLMA’s principles, a green loan's proceeds have to fund green projects that provide clear environmental benefits.

(Reporting by Susanna Twidale; editing by Jason Neely)