Ocean-based climate actions are rapidly gaining investment, from experimental technological solutions (like ocean alkalinity enhancement and assisted evolution) to vital societal decisions (like offshore oil and gas moratoria, offshore wind zoning, and coastal adaptation planning). But are we investing responsibly to ensure these interventions are actually effective and also equitable and sustainable?

Crucial social, ecological, and climate policy integrity risks can be overlooked in project design, and many governance systems are unprepared for the complexity and pace of these interventions. Input from Indigenous Peoples and local communities is often insufficient, eroding public trust and missing opportunities for context-sensitive solutions. This can lead to unintended consequences, perpetuate injustices, and ultimately jeopardize the success of our climate goals.

Our essential Brief for Funders: Towards Responsible Investment in Ocean-Based Climate Actions offers practical strategies for funders, investors, and policymakers to ensure their investments actually advance climate goals and also contribute to justice, resilience, and inclusive decision-making in marine ecosystems. The Brief outlines five vital pathways for responsible investment:

1. Embed governance readiness into investment decisions.

2. Support rights-based and tenure-secure interventions.

3. Fund co-designed, locally led initiatives.

4. Invest in social and ethical capacity.

5. Advance climate, ecological, and social goals simultaneously.

The optimism of ocean climate solutions cannot afford to fall short on equity, biodiversity, or long-term climate impact.

Download the Brief by clicking on the image to explore these vital strategies and join us in shaping a future where ocean-based climate actions are not just technologically innovative, but also socially and ecologically responsible and truly transformative for our climate.