Coral Reef Biodiversity Credits
and Nature Markets

The Coral Reef Biodiversity Credits project aims to develop a high-integrity quantitative biodiversity accounting methodology for coral reefs that is broadly applicable and accessible. It is intended drive the development of emerging marine biodiversity credit markets and investment in reef restoration initiatives.  

Reef restoration and adaptation technologies, like those developed under RRAP, are advancing rapidly. Yet, there remains a major financing gap for large-scale implementation. According to the World Economic Forum, the global funding need for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14 (life below water) is estimated at approximately US$175 billion annually, with less than US$10bn actually being spent. Addressing the gap requires new financing mechanisms that can mobilise investment into reef protection and restoration at scale, while delivering measurable ecological and social outcomes. 

Led by the Great Barrier Reef Foundation in partnership with the Australian Institute of Marine Science, this work aims to establish a scalable, science-based methodology that enables the monitoring and reporting of positive biodiversity outcomes resulting from reef restoration activities, and can underpin their monetisation. It is intended to provide a streamlined pathway towards sustainable financing, including for Traditional Owners and reef communities in Australia, the Pacific and beyond.