Blue carbon ecosystems protect coasts, support livelihoods, and store far more carbon than terrestrial forests – yet they are still disappearing, and blue carbon makes up less than 1% of today’s voluntary carbon market.

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Our global assessment shows the core barrier: policy readiness. Clear rules on tenure, carbon rights, approvals, FPIC and benefit-sharing determine whether countries can attract investment and deliver high-integrity projects.

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Across 20 countries, only five – Brazil, Kenya, Ghana, Indonesia and the Philippines – have near-complete frameworks. Most others sit in a grey zone of partial reforms, while a smaller group still lacks the legal foundations needed for restoration at scale.

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The same gaps repeat: unclear carbon rights, complex mandates, weak benefit-sharing, and fragmented MRV systems. These issues slow projects, deter finance, and limit community benefits – but also highlight where action is possible now.

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Blue carbon is a governance opportunity. Strong, transparent frameworks can unlock investment, strengthen resilience, and ensure fair outcomes.

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This briefing shows where countries stand today and what they can do next to close the readiness gap.