Delivering on a promise to investors

Invest in the future of our oceans through sustainable marine projects that benefit people and planet.

Global solutions for blue natural capital and coastal resilience

Discover impactful projects supported by BCAF and BNCFF, driving conservation and restoration efforts worldwide. Each initiative represents a step toward a more sustainable future, from protecting marine ecosystems to empowering coastal communities.

Protecting What Matters:
Valuing and Saving Our Ocean’s Blue Natural Capital

Blue Natural Capital (BNC) – part of The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the global authority on the natural world – is at the forefront of developing innovative ocean financing solutions.

Closing a market gap

We help create opportunities for investors to contribute to building a sustainable blue future by mainstreaming investments in our oceans.

Working for people and the planet

We help address the global climate and biodiversity challenges by supporting sustainable nature-based solutions with financial longevity.

Building a business case

We support developers and enterprises so they can develop and build a strong business case to attract private investments.

Blue Natural Capital (BNC) includes vital coastal and marine ecosystems like coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. Despite their value, these ecosystems are often undervalued and rapidly degrading worldwide.

Why is BNC important?

BNC ecosystems provide essential resources such as seafood, natural storm protection and tourism revenue. They enhance water quality, capture carbon, and are vital for maintaining biodiversity and a healthy ocean.

What is IUCN doing?

Investing in sustainable coastal protection supports communities reliant on marine resources. IUCN builds business cases for ocean investments and develops impactful, sustainable projects.

The Blue Natural Capital Financing Facility (BNCFF) supports the development of sound, investable BNC projects with clear ecosystem service benefits, based on multiple income streams and appropriate risk-return profiles.

The BNCFF is managed by IUCN and funded by the Government of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and supported by UBS Optimus Foundation.

The Blue Carbon Accelerator Fund (BCAF) supports the development of blue carbon restoration and conservation projects in developing countries and helps pave the way for private sector finance.

The BCAF is managed by the IUCN and funded by the Australian Government, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.