Ocean-based climate actions are rapidly gaining investment, from cutting-edge technological solutions like ocean alkalinity enhancement and assisted evolution to vital initiatives like mangrove planting and offshore wind farms. But are we investing responsibly to ensure these interventions are actually effective and also equitable and sustainable?

Currently, crucial social, ecological, and climate policy integrity risks are often 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 frequently 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.

We've developed an essential brief: 'Towards Responsible Investment in Ocean-Based Climate Actions.' which 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. It 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.

Don't let the promise of ocean climate solutions fall short on equity, biodiversity, or long-term climate impact. Find out how to make your investments truly impactful and just.

Visit https://governingchange.org/responsibleinvestment to explore these vital strategies and join us in shaping a future where ocean-based climate actions are not just technologically innovative, but socially and ecologically responsible and truly transformative.