Why do you refer to “sustainable” power and not “clean”, “renewable” or “low carbon” power?

The terminology “clean” implies the mistaken idea that some energy sources have no impact, while “dirty” energy sources have harmful impacts. Every kWh of electricity production requires the extraction and consumption of natural resources, has a spatial footprint, and produces greenhouse gas emissions. Over the entire life cycle, all energy sources have an impact on the climate, on ecosystems, and on people. In that context, energy cannot be “clean”. In the same way, “low carbon” or “renewable” sources do not encompass all of the environmental and social aspects that matter for a just and successful transition. Consequently, we use the term “sustainable”.  Financial institutions should always be explicit about what is and what is not included in their scope.