Key Impact Points:
- UNEP FI and UN Global Compact launched the Ocean Investment Protocol, offering financial institutions a clear framework to support Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).
- New “One Ocean Finance” mechanism aims to unlock billions in ocean-focused capital, encouraging public-private collaboration to restore marine health and build coastal resilience.
- Global agreements like the BBNJ Treaty and Plastics Treaty are gaining traction, presenting new risks and opportunities for private capital in marine conservation and circular economy solutions.
UN Calls on Financial Sector to Back Ocean Health
The ocean remains severely underfinanced despite being critical to the global economy, climate stability, and biodiversity. At the third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3), UNEP FI and partners issued a call to action for financial institutions to align capital with marine protection and sustainability goals.
“Financial institutions are encouraged to participate in the Call for Engagement on One Ocean Finance.”
Ocean Investment Protocol: A Roadmap for Blue Finance
UNEP FI and the UN Global Compact unveiled the Ocean Investment Protocol at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum (BEFF). It builds on the Sustainable Blue Economy Finance Principles and provides a step-by-step guide for financial actors to support ocean-related industries.
The Protocol “outlines how financial institutions, policymakers and industry leaders can align their activities to drive progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).”
One Ocean Finance: Unlocking Capital at Scale
UNEP and partners launched One Ocean Finance, a new global development finance mechanism targeting billions in investment for the sustainable blue economy. Co-developed with UNEP FI, the platform is designed to be agile and scalable.
“The goal is to drive a triple win: accelerate industry transition, restore ocean health, and strengthen coastal community resilience.”
BBNJ Agreement: Private Capital and High Seas Protection
Progress was made on the BBNJ Agreement, which aims to regulate activities in international waters. With 50 of 60 ratifications secured, it’s close to entering into force. UNEP FI is advising on the treaty’s financial mechanisms.
“This progress is significant for the finance sector, as the treaty could drive stronger regulation of high seas activities like overfishing and boost investment in marine research, conservation, and sustainable ocean use.”
Global Plastics Treaty: Early Action Urged
Though still in negotiation, the Global Plastics Treaty could reshape global investment and regulatory landscapes. UNEP FI has launched a Finance Leadership Group on Plastics to prepare the sector for future obligations.
“Financial institutions are encouraged to stay engaged and begin preparing now for the treaty’s adoption, as it will influence investment risks, regulatory compliance, and sustainability strategies across sectors.”
Marine Biodiversity Credits: Investing in Nature-Positive Impact
The conference also highlighted the rise of marine biodiversity credits as a private-sector tool to fund verified gains in ecosystem restoration.
“UNEP FI, as co-facilitator of the Biodiversity Credit Alliance, is helping to ensure these markets are credible, transparent, and scalable.”
Next Steps for Financial Institutions
UNEP FI’s Sustainable Blue Economy Finance Initiative continues to guide financial institutions on aligning with emerging treaties and frameworks such as the BBNJ, the Global Plastics Treaty, the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and One Ocean Finance.
“UNEP FI supports financial institutions in understanding and responding to the financial implications of key environmental agreements and ocean-related initiatives.”
Related Article: KPMG Weighs in on Activating Private Capital Confidence in the Blue Economy
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