Jakarta, 21 May 2025 – ASEAN, the Government of Japan, and UNDP officially launched the ASEAN Blue Carbon and Finance Profiling (ABCF) Project today in Jakarta, marking a major step forward in the region’s efforts to strengthen the sustainable management of blue carbon ecosystems. The blue carbon profiling will involve identifying, mapping, and valuing carbon stored in marine and freshwater ecosystems, using the best available science, satellite technology, and field assessments. This ambitious initiative aims to unlock innovative financing solutions that drive climate resilience and inclusive economic growth across the region in all ASEAN countries and Timor Leste.
Funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNDP Indonesia in coordination with the ASEAN Coordinating Task Force on Blue Economy (ACTF-BE), the ASEAN Blue Carbon and Finance Profiling (ABCF) Project is aligned with the objectives of the ASEAN Blue Economy Framework. The project aims to strengthen technical capacity to assess carbon stocks, develop robust blue carbon profiles, and integrate blue carbon strategies into national and regional development plans across ASEAN and Timor Leste.
Building on the earlier ASEAN Blue Economy Innovation Project—also supported by the Government of Japan—the ABCF Project underscores ASEAN’s commitment to a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable blue economy. By aligning policy, finance, and science-based approach, the project helps unlock the untapped climate and economic value of the region’s marine and coastal ecosystems.
“Blue economy has emerged as a vital driver of growth while ensuring the preservation of water resource ecosystems in ASEAN,” said H.E. Mr. Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for the ASEAN Economic Community. “The blue carbon market, though nascent, is emerging as a potential revenue stream for countries investing in conservation and restoration. The ABCF Project will support the Member States in developing strategic, science-based, and finance-ready policies to unlock the full potential of blue carbon ecosystems.”
Southeast Asia is home to approximately 33% of the world’s seagrass beds and nearly 40% of known tropical peatlands, representing about 6% of global peatland resources. Despite their critical role in climate mitigation, these ecosystems remain underutilized due to technical, financial, and policy gaps.
“Japan is honoured to support this important initiative,” said H.E. Mr. KIYA Masahiko, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN. “The project reflects our joint commitment to climate resilience, ecosystem protection, and regional collaboration. Together, through strategic collaboration and partnerships, we can establish a regional platform to measure Blue Carbon and Blue Finance for climate action and sustainable growth,” he continued.
The launch event brought together over 100 stakeholders from ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste, and ASEAN Dialogue Partners, experts from academic institutions such as Gadjah Mada University, international organizations such as the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), development partners, and media representatives. A high-level panel discussion was also held, highlighting global and regional experiences on blue carbon and finance, including Japan’s integration of blue carbon in its national climate strategies.
“Seagrass and peatlands are among the most effective and affordable nature-based solutions for mitigating climate change,” said Mr. Norimasa Shimomura, UNDP Indonesia Resident Representative. “Through the ABCF Project, UNDP is proud to collaborate with ASEAN and the Government of Japan in bridging science, policy, and finance to unlock the potential of blue carbon for sustainable development. This initiative will deliver actionable blue carbon profiles and practical tools to attract investment and scale up impact.”
The ABCF Project represents a strategic effort to position blue carbon as a key driver of Southeast Asia’s sustainable and inclusive future. Implemented in close partnership with a network of national experts and regional advisors, the ABCF Project will deliver findings and policy recommendations to inform ASEAN-level dialogues. These outcomes will support ASEAN and Timor Leste in mobilizing climate finance for coastal ecosystem restoration and protection.
***Media Contacts:Nabilla Rahmani, Head of Communications, UNDP Indonesia, [email protected] L. Hapsoro, Media Officer, Community Relations Division, ASEAN Secretariat, [email protected]