Whales to Ocean Productivity Regeneration

BGF is pioneering an initiative to protect whales and ocean biodiversity by developing a biodiversity credit methodology. This effort integrates ecosystem science, economic valuation, and nature-based finance, providing the foundation for sustainable investment in marine conservation.

The project will model whales' contributions to ocean productivity, nutrient cycling, and carbon storage, transforming ecological value into financial instruments that drive conservation action. Additional valuations include whale ecotourism and fisheries productivity.

Financial mechanisms can be developed for whale protection, including insurance incentives and technology that supports the recovery of whale populations by reducing ship strikes, fishing gear entanglements, and climate impacts.

Why Now?

• Critical whale populations — North Atlantic right whales and Pacific blue whales face urgent threats from ship strikes and entanglements.
• Emerging finance mechanisms — Growing demand for blue natural capital credits aligns with global climate and biodiversity commitments.
• Technological readiness — Anti-collision systems and ropeless fishing gear are available but need scaled funding.

If you're interested in supporting the development of this methodology, please contact +Nature.