This report provides investors and other interested parties with details on the use of proceeds and related expected environmental impact of the Green Bond (€300 million at a coupon of 0.625%, maturing in September 2026). The proceeds of the Green Bond are to be used to finance new and existing eligible green projects. This enables PostNL to contribute meaningfully to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals ‘Decent work and economic growth’ and ‘Climate action’.

The eligible green projects focus on clean kilometres, sustainable buildings and innovation and efficiency.

During the six month reporting period (28 June 2020 – 31 December 2020), PostNL allocated €20 million of the Green Bond proceeds (7% of total net proceeds) to eligible green projects which brings the cumulative amount to €52 million (17% of total net proceeds). PostNL continued with the implementation of its strategic actions to combat climate change and work towards its long-term objective of emission-free last-mile delivery in the Benelux area in 2030.

In total, PostNL has invested in 1,287 new vehicles, of which 292 during the reporting period. Looking ahead, the company expects to expand testing with a variety of electric vehicles in the parcel delivery towards sustainable city logistics in the upcoming year. And we continue investigating other opportunities to accelerate the electrification of our fleet.

PostNL received BREEAM or similar certificates for eight sorting centres, of which four during the reporting period. PostNL expects to finalise the BREEAM NL In Use certification of the other sorting centres in 2021.

Based on planned investments, the majority of the remaining proceeds will be allocated to electrification of the fleet and investments in sustainable buildings.

Source: PostNL