Blue carbon refers to carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems, which research shows can sequester carbon at rates up to ten times higher than terrestrial forests. Mangroves in particular are among the most effective natural carbon sinks, storing carbon in both biomass and sediment. Despite this potential, blue carbon markets remain relatively nascent, with only a limited number of projects globally issuing verified credits – though development activity is accelerating.

Across the Caribbean, early-stage projects are beginning to shape a regional market landscape capable of attracting carbon finance at scale. In Belize, the government has launched a blue carbon pilot project with Brightwater Climate to protect and restore mangrove and seagrass ecosystems at Turneffe Atoll, with the objective of developing the country’s first high-quality blue carbon credits. The initiative integrates climate mitigation with biodiversity conservation and community resilience, positioning it as a potential model for replication across the region.

In Trinidad and Tobago, efforts to establish carbon markets are advancing with support from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Institute of Marine Affairs. A program led by Aninver Development Partners is designing a blue carbon credit scheme focused on ecologically significant sites including Caroni Swamp and Bon Accord Lagoon. Beyond carbon quantification, the initiative aims to develop regulatory frameworks, robust measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) systems, and equitable benefit-sharing mechanisms that place local communities at the center of implementation.

At the regional level, the IDB is supporting technical cooperation to help Caribbean governments and private actors participate effectively in global blue carbon markets. This program focuses on carbon stock assessment, policy alignment and knowledge exchange – foundational elements for bringing credible credits to market and reducing transaction risk for investors.

National climate commitments are further strengthening the enabling environment. Jamaica’s updated nationally determined contribution to the Paris Agreement includes specific targets for mapping and conserving mangroves and seagrasses, signaling a strategic integration of blue carbon into climate and development policy. Such commitments elevate coastal ecosystems from environmental assets to investable climate infrastructure.

For investors, the Caribbean’s emerging blue carbon sector represents a convergence of climate impact and commercial opportunity. Nature-based carbon credits – particularly those tied to biodiversity protection – are increasingly commanding premium pricing from companies pursuing net-zero and nature-positive commitments. This creates a pathway for Caribbean states to monetize natural capital while delivering environmental and social co-benefits.

At CEW 2026, experts from government, finance, ecosystem science and carbon market development will examine how regional strategies can bridge the gap between policy ambition and bankable carbon projects. Discussions will focus on MRV systems, credit integrity, investment structures that mobilize private capital, and community engagement models that ensure long-term project viability.

As carbon markets mature and regional coordination improves, the Caribbean is well positioned to emerge as a frontier market for high-integrity blue carbon investment. The Carbon Market & Blue Carbon Opportunities panel at CEW 2026 will provide a platform for translating policy momentum into actionable partnerships, positioning the region at the intersection of climate finance, ecosystem protection and sustainable growth.

Join us in shaping the future of Caribbean energy. To participate in this landmark event, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.