Millions To Be Invested In Blue Economy Projects In “Big Ocean States” - CleanTechnica

The article discusses a significant investment initiative targeting the sustainable development of island and coastal economies, particularly Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which are highly vulnerable to climate change impacts such as sea-level rise, flooding, and storm damage. Outrigger Impact, a new fund supported by the UK Government’s Blue Planet Fund, the Global Environment Facility, and other donors, plans to invest over $5 million initially in grants and repayable loans to help island-based enterprises become investment-ready. The long-term goal is to scale up investments to $100 million to foster sustainable and resilient economies, conserve biodiversity, and enhance marine ecosystems through regenerative blue economy projects. Catalytic capital, which is patient and risk-tolerant finance designed to attract additional traditional investors by absorbing initial risks, plays a central role in this strategy. The sustainable blue economy encompasses ocean conservation, sustainable seafood, low-carbon shipping, and renewable ocean energy, all vital for the economic and ecological health of island states. SIDS control about 30%