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Sustainability
Channelling capital towards the ocean
We’re working to help transition the real blue economy to more sustainable practices.
Protecting and facilitating the sustainable use of the ocean is essential to mitigating the effects of climate change, supporting livelihoods across our markets, and fostering inclusive and enduring economic growth.
3bn
people rely on the ocean for their livelihoods¹
80%
of the world’s biodiversity is estimated to be in the ocean²
90%
of our markets are coastal, approximately
Despite our global dependence on the ocean, marine health continues to decline, and its protection remains severely underfunded, presenting potential risks to inclusive economic development through impacts to livelihoods and biodiversity.
We aim to mobilise finance towards the ocean and a sustainable blue economy, and support the advancement of the blue finance ecosystem.
As a member of #BackBlue, an Ocean Finance Commitment, we are looking at how we can seek to ensure that a sustainable ocean is an important consideration in our financing decisions. We build our knowledge and understanding of key issues and share best practice through our membership of other industry and sector organisations, adoption of global commitments, and implementation of guiding frameworks. Discover these here.
We’re guided by our position statements, which are informed by international conventions, national laws and regulations, and industry standards and best practices.
How we’re supporting our markets
A debt conversion for nature
We acted as the sole lender and deal manager in a debt conversion for nature with The Government of The Bahamas, which is expected to unlock USD124 million for marine conservation over the next 15 years.
A sustainability-linked loan for Vista Shipping
We led the USD89.6 million sustainability-linked loan for Vista Shipping to support the purchase of dual-fuelled vessels, alongside assisting in securing a Second Party Opinion (SPO) on the loan.
A sustainability-linked loan for MISC
We led MISC’s first USD527 million sustainability-linked loan, financing six Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs) to support MISC’s long-term business strategy and sustainability aspirations.
A sustainability-linked loan for HMM, Korea’s largest container shipping company
We acted as the Mandated Lead Arranger, Sustainability Coordinator and Original Tranche A Lender for this USD615 million sustainability-linked loan, winning the Marine Money East Structured Finance Deal of the Year.
Scaling adaptation and resilience finance
The Guide for Adaptation and Resilience Finance serves as a common reference for adaptation and resilience, with a collection of over 100 investible opportunities for investors. This can help to address the disproportionate impact of the changing ocean on coastal regions and communities.
Driving awareness of promising solutions
Our reports showcase investible, innovative solutions to catalyse the transition of the blue economy to more sustainable practices.
Valuing nature: The ROA of an MPA
Explore the potential Return on Assets (ROA) of a Marine Protected Area (MPA) to understand the importance of mainstreaming nature considerations into financial decision-making.
Harnessing Africa’s blue economy
Learn about the opportunity a sustainable blue economy represents in Africa.
Towards a sustainable ocean
Discover the range of solutions available to support the transition of the blue economy, with sector deep dives and financing solutions.
Seaweed: Kelp is on the way
Dive deeper to explore how seaweed can act as a sustainable disruptor, yielding value for businesses and investors.
Historically, investment into a sustainable blue economy has been a ripple when what we need is a wave.
Marisa DrewChief Sustainability Officer
Hear more from our Chief Sustainability Officer:
The tide is now turning
Read Marisa’s reflection on how mechanisms which drive ocean conservation and protection are maturing.
Why 2025 is the year of progress
Discover the 4 reasons why 2025 can be a breakthrough year for the regenerative blue economy.
Standard Chartered has an important role to play in supporting our clients, sectors and markets to deliver net zero, but to do so in a manner that supports livelihoods and promotes sustainable economic growth. We currently provide financial services to clients, sectors and markets that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions however we’re committed to net zero in our own operations by 2025 and in our financed emissions by 2050.