The Ocean is a crucial life-source on our planet. It produces at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen, and is home to most of the Earth’s biodiversity. It is our planet’s largest carbon sink, and more than three billion people rely on the Ocean for their livelihoods, the vast majority in developing countries. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) predicts the economic value of the Ocean will surpass USD 3 trillion by 2030, as it is important for global trade, food security, and sustainable energy solutions. 

The Ocean is also severely threatened. Pollution from plastics and chemicals is harming precious ocean ecosystems and their inhabitants. Heavy metals accumulate in seafood, making it harmful for consumption. Overfishing is depleting fish stocks, threatening life under the surface as well as undermining food security across the world. Carbon emissions are driving ocean warming and acidification, destroying biodiversity and causing sea-level rise, threatening communities living amongst the coast.

It is estimated that annual investments of USD 175 billion is needed for the maritime economy to become sustainable and inclusive, with greater cooperation required between the private sector, governments, intergovernmental organizations, coastal communities, and civil society.

The Blue Economy and Finance Forum recognized that protecting the Ocean is a global responsibility, and that the challenges facing the Ocean requires international cooperation. To enable this, the Forum brought together experts, policymakers, investors, and innovators to promote the critical role that sustainable investment, innovation, and forward-thinking policies play in ensuring the long-term health and prosperity of the Ocean and our economies.

The themes discussed over the Conference addressed:

• investing for ocean health, preservation, and resilience;
• financing a regenerative and sustainable blue economy;
• transforming blue ports and shipping; and
• ensuring sustainable ocean governance and finance.

The Blue Economy and Finance Forum took place as part of the United Nations Ocean Conference. It was convene in Monaco from 7-8 June 2025.

The Earth Negotiations Bulletin (ENB) writers for this meeting were Mika Schröder, Ph.D.; and Tasha Goldberg. The Digital Editor was Anastasia Rodopoulou. The Editor was Leila Mead.