Chapter 4: Turning the tide page 53Redirect financial flows: There is a compelling economic case
for investing in preserving and restoring marine natural capital
and sustainable production, yet investment patterns and harmful
subsidies continue to promote overfishing and unsustainable
exploitation. NCA and ESV tools, as described in the previous
chapter, can help support wiser investment choices.
One alternative model is WWF’s Financial Instrument for
the Recovery of Marine Ecosystems (FIRME). Which facilitates
loans for conservation measures and social support necessary to
put a fishery on a sustainable footing, to be repaid through profits
from increased future yields. User fees for marine protected areas
and tourism levies that are put back into conservation are also
examples of how finance can be redirected to enhance the value of
our ocean assets.
WWF wants to see a “Blue Alliance” of nations as well as
concerned organizations and businesses to drive action to restore
our ocean to health. This would include raising and accessing
funds to invest in restoring habitats, reforming fisheries (including
small-scale fisheries), reducing pollution, and building resilience to
climate change.
Equitable resource governance: Ocean protection and
restoration is not just a matter for government; communities and
responsible businesses must be engaged as well. Solutions must
involve holistic thinking that includes natural, social and economic
needs and limits.
WWF is working with communities to develop rights-
based, ecosystem-centred management systems, enabling them to
sustainably manage their marine resources and ensure their long-
term food and livelihood security. Gender issues often also need to
be addressed with regard to access to resources and benefits.