Op-ed
Why coral reefs are such a decisive climate investment
The ocean is key to the functioning of multiple planetary systems and represents an untapped frontier for climate-conscious investments.
- Coral reefs provide ecosystem services valued at $9.9 trillion annually.
- Coral reefs offer an unmatched opportunity for returns—economic, social and ecological.
- The insurance industry and development banks are moving to invest in their protection — but more can be done.
The ocean is key to the functioning of multiple planetary systems and represents an untapped frontier for climate-conscious investments.
Yet, when considering climate-resilient infrastructure investments, most investors focus on the obvious: flood defences, renewable energy and drought-resistant agricultural systems. These are all sensible pursuits that offer long-term financial, social and environmental returns.
But, beneath the surface of the ocean lies an investable opportunity that ticks all the right boxes — and it is a critical form of natural infrastructure urgently needing regeneration: coral reefs.
