The ocean forms the backbone of the global economy while providing a critical buffer against climate change: it supports 90% of global trade volume and absorbs 25% of all carbon dioxide emissions.  

However, the ocean is now absorbing carbon at an unsustainable rate and rapid growth of ocean-linked sectors is threatening the very ecosystem they rely on. There is a pressing need to scale up the transition towards a sustainable ocean economy, to ensure the health of our ocean and the prosperity of future generations. 

The Ocean Investment Protocol offers a framework for financial institutions, policy makers and industry leaders to lead this transition. First published in 2025, this updated edition reflects developments in the sustainable ocean finance landscape and highlights new priorities; including stronger action by central banks, regulators, and supervisors and better integration of ocean considerations into financial decision-making. 

The Ocean Investment Protocol was developed by UN Global Compact and UNEP FI in collaboration with WWF.