The Clean Energy Finance Corporation will tip in at least $70 million to a managed fund of so-called green bonds, believed to be the first of its kind in Australia and a milestone for the burgeoning ethical investment market.

Boutique investment manager Altius, part of the Australian Unity stable, has launched a fund to sophisticated and institutional investors providing access to about 30 corporate and government bonds, the proceeds of which are earmarked for projects to reduce carbon emissions.