Blue Finance and Ocean Geopolitics: Climate Capital in the Transformation of Global Ocean Economies

Abstract

This study examined how blue finance and ocean geopolitics shaped climate capital in the transformation of global ocean economies. The study used a qualitative research design based on secondary data and thematic analysis. The sample comprised 45 sources: 25 peer-reviewed journal articles, 10 international policy reports, 5 institutional or financial documents, and 5 case-based documents. The analysis focused on blue bonds, blended finance, debt-for-nature swaps, blue carbon projects, marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries, coastal resilience, and ocean-based climate investment.

Results showed that expansion of blue finance was reported in 38 of 45 sources, representing 84.4% of the sample. Sustainability and conservation benefits were reported in 36 sources, representing 80.0%. Governance and transparency risks were identified in 34 sources, accounting for 75.6%. Climate capital as geopolitical influence appeared in 32 sources, equal to 71.1%. Equity and justice concerns appeared in 31 sources, equal to 68.9%. These numeric findings indicated that blue finance supported ocean sustainability but also created risks related to debt pressure, bluewashing, unequal access to finance, weak accountability, and limited community participation. The study concluded that climate capital transformed ocean economies through both environmental investment and geopolitical power. Transparent standards, fair benefit sharing, stronger monitoring, and inclusive governance were necessary to ensure that blue finance supported sustainable and just ocean development across vulnerable coastal and island regions under changing climate conditions in a globally equitable manner.

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