The overlooked solution that could transform COP29

Abstract

Delivering climate justice remains a challenge at UN climate talks. High-income countries missed their $100 billion climate finance target and are now negotiating a new goal at COP29. However, discussions often overlook the blue economy, which includes sustainable aquatic resource use and can drive climate justice. Investing in small-scale fisheries and aquaculture supports vulnerable coastal communities while fostering sustainable growth. Yet, climate finance for aquatic food systems remains minimal. Policymakers must integrate small-scale fisheries into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), enhance coastal resilience, and ensure climate funds address losses in aquatic food production to create a more equitable, food-secure future.