The GEF and the Blue Economy

International attention to opportunities in the blue economy is growing. But this increased attention is marked by diverse underlying assumptions and by inadequate attention to the important trade-offs and risks these investments often entail. The purpose of this paper is: (i) to offer a coherent framing to ensure that investments pursued under the blue economy banner are consistent with the GEF’s mandate and targeted to contribute to system transformation in GEF-8 and beyond; and (ii) to suggest possible priorities for investment within the categories of a) governance and policies; b) financial leverage; c) innovation and learning; and d) multi-stakeholder dialogue.