The Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) has announced a significant expansion of its commitment to protecting the region’s marine and coastal ecosystems. At the Blue Economy and Finance Forum held in Monaco, the bank revealed that it would invest $2.5 billion by 2030 in the so-called “blue economy”—a term that encompasses sustainable economic practices tied to oceans, seas, and coasts. This move positions CAF as one of the leading financial institutions championing marine conservation in Latin America.

This new pledge effectively doubles CAF's initial investment goal of $1.25 billion set for the 2022–2026 period. Notably, the bank has already surpassed that earlier goal ahead of schedule, with $1.32 billion already allocated to marine sustainability efforts. The decision to scale up funding reflects both the growing urgency of environmental threats and the increasing demand for sustainable ocean-related investments across Latin America and the Caribbean.

The projects funded by CAF span a broad range of sectors. These include coastal sanitation systems, which are crucial in preventing pollution from entering marine environments, and innovative clean energy solutions tailored to industries such as aquaculture. For instance, in Ecuador’s shrimp farming sector—a vital export industry—CAF has supported projects to transition toward low-carbon energy sources, aiming to reduce ecological impact without sacrificing economic productivity.

CAF’s investments also reach countries like Brazil and El Salvador, where the focus has been on improving marine water quality and strengthening resilience against coastal erosion and rising sea levels. These interventions are especially crucial for communities that rely heavily on fishing and tourism—both of which are vulnerable to marine degradation and climate change.

Beyond direct investment, CAF aims to catalyze broader regional change by promoting policies that integrate environmental protection with economic development. By aligning its financial strategy with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 14 ("Life Below Water"), the bank seeks to become a key driver of ecological and social progress in the hemisphere.

In a broader context, this initiative by CAF underscores Latin America’s increasing recognition of its vast ocean wealth—not just as a resource to be exploited, but as a fragile system that requires stewardship. As countries in the region grapple with biodiversity loss,overfishing, and climate-induced coastal risks, CAF’s enhanced financial commitment could help lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient marine economy.