Regenerating Oceans
As a vast, natural carbon sink, the ocean plays an essential role in regulating our environment. But our emissions are increasing ocean temperatures around the world, which in turn are increasing acidity levels and reducing the ocean’s capacity to absorb carbon.
The good news is that it is not too late to restore the ocean’s health and work with it to restore the health of the planet. We’re pleased to have featured many innovative climate solutions which work with nature to protect and restore the ocean's health.
Vibrant Blue Economies
With increased exposure to hurricanes, cyclones, flooding, and rising sea levels, small islands around the world are on the frontier of climate change. How can we stop them from being lost forever?
The answer may lie in changing the way we think about small islands, focusing less on the land and more on the huge areas of ocean under their control; almost 30 times the size of the islands themselves. The natural assets in and around these waters have rich economic potential that could restore these fragile ecosystems.
Restoring Ecosystems
Adaptation, resilience and biodiversity
Investing in Marine Ecosystems
Small Island Developing States must adapt and build resilience in a swiftly changing world. Identifying natural assets can be an important piece of the puzzle. Watch our extended interview with High Commissioner of The Bahamas Paul Andrew Gomez to learn how the country is monetising seagrass beds in the form of carbon credits.
Removing Carbon
Harnessing the ocean's natural carbon cycle
Supporting Small Islands
Small Island Developing States are responsible for less than 1% of greenhouse gas emissions, but they are disproportionately impacted by the changing climate. Could nature-based solutions could hold the key to resilience?
Dr. Deborah Brosnan sets out some of the opportunities we have to restore ecosystems and rebuild economies at the same time.
Research & Insight
Case studies and thought leadership from the Sustainable Markets Initiative and its members
Insuring Climate Adaptation
Many innovative financial products are emerging to meet the unique needs of Small Island Developing States. One of these is parametric insurance, which can offer instant payouts based on a pre-defined trigger such as wind speed or flood water levels.
Rebekah Clement points out that beyond disaster relief, there is an opportunity for the insurance industry to drive investment in disaster adaptation efforts, such as mangrove protection.
Ocean Risk and Resilience
Mangroves and coral reefs are nature's frontline defence systems, shielding coastal communities from climate-driven flooding. They also support livelihoods and food security, sequester carbon, and promote biodiversity.
Despite their great importance and potential, the value of coastal ecosystems is seldom accounted for in insurance risk models. Together with scientific partners, AXA XL are developing a Coastal Risk Index (CRI) that integrates nature-based solutions into risk management. This could be a game changer for the industry.
