Filling the Ocean Funding Gap: A Study of Blended Finance and the Promise of Blue Bonds for Ocean Conservation

Abstract

The ocean covers 70% of the Earth’s surface, comprises 97% of all water on earth, and contains 99% of all living space on the planet. It plays a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide and producing the oxygen we breathe, it is a significant component of the global economy, and a key element in fighting climate change. However, governments and organizations around the world continue to abuse the ocean rather than protect it. The past few years have seen numerous commitments to restoring and protecting the long-term health our oceans. Despite these commitments, the ocean remains chronically underfunded. This project analyzes the role that Blue Bonds can play in closing this funding gap and shows how Green Bonds can be used as a framework to scale the Blue Bond market. Additionally, I created an example bond, The Manta Bond, to illustrate the process by which blue bonds can support conservation goals.