Scaling up private investment in biodiversity is essential for conservation and restoration. Mission Ocean and Waters supports this shift by offering funding opportunities and fostering science-backed solutions to align investor expectations with biodiversity goals.
A recent article in Nature Ecology and Evolution explores the current status of scaling up private investment in biodiversity in Europe. It discusses how public policy, regulatory frameworks, international commitments and economic pressures are shaping private investment in conservation and restoration efforts, such as those aligned with Mission Restore our Oceans and Waters.
Challenges in Biodiversity Finance
While the EU’s policy commitments on biodiversity provide a strong foundation, the authors note that aligning investor expectations with the financial realities of biodiversity projects remains a work in progress. Some projects face challenges in achieving profitability, managing investment risks, and navigating regulatory complexities. However, these challenges also underscore the opportunity to refine financing strategies by building credible, science-based evidence that demonstrates clear environmental benefits and ultimately converts biodiversity gains into tangible financial value.
Demonstration and Replication Projects as a Pathway to Scalable Solutions
Demonstration and replication Mission Ocean and Waters projects could play a key role in reducing investment risks by testing innovative biodiversity restoration approaches. These projects aim to generate science-based evidence on solutions, thus providing investors with greater confidence in nature-positive initiatives. The Mission Ocean and Waters Service Portal provides information on public and private funding opportunities, as well as open calls for replication projects.
EU Financing and Support Mechanisms for Biodiversity Investment
For those seeking funding to achieve the objectives of the Mission, private finance can be an essential component. BlueInvest and InvestEU are key EU-backed financial and support mechanisms that help address the challenges of biodiversity finance by bridging the gap between private investors and projects that benefit biodiversity. The InvestEU programme plays a crucial role in mobilising private finance by providing guarantees and blended finance options for nature restoration projects, reducing risks for investors. For ocean and water-based initiatives, BlueInvest offers grants, investment readiness support, and connections to investors specifically for sustainable blue economy projects. The Mission Ocean and Water’s Service Portal also provides information on innovative financial instruments that can be tapped.
The Future of Biodiversity Funding in the EU
Finding the right funding for biodiversity projects is key to making a lasting positive impact on our oceans and waters. EU programmes like BlueInvest and InvestEU provide valuable support, but success also depends on showing clear environmental and financial benefits. By using science-backed evidence and practical and scalable solutions, projects can attract both public and private investment. With growing support for nature restoration, tapping into these opportunities can help turn ambitious ideas into real change.