The 4th IORA Blue Carbon Hub Think Tank Meeting, themed "Nature-based Solutions for Adaptation to Climate Risks in the Coastal Zone," was convened to address the increasing exposure of Indian Ocean nations to climate risks such as sea-level rise and extreme weather events. Held from 12–14 September 2023 in Bali, Indonesia, the meeting’s primary purpose was to explore ecosystem-based approaches to enhance the resilience of coastal infrastructure and livelihoods.
Key objectives included sharing best practices in eco-engineering, identifying innovative financing frameworks for blue carbon, and formulating strategic recommendations for regional action.
The event was jointly organized by the IORA Blue Carbon Hub and the Coordinating Ministry of Maritime and Investment Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, in collaboration with the IORA Secretariat. Participation was robust, featuring delegates from 16 IORA Member States and the Republic of Korea as a Dialogue Partner, alongside technical experts from prominent organizations such as CSIRO, the Indonesian Academy of Sciences, and the Ocean and Climate Platform.
The program featured thematic sessions on eco-engineering theory, sustainable livelihoods, and policy and finance. Key activities included interactive training on risk modeling, technical presentations on the "Nature Navigator" handbook, and a field trip to Tahura for G20 mangrove planting and Nusa Lembongan to observe seaweed-based livelihoods. Discussions highlighted the importance of integrating nature-based solutions (NbS) into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the urgent need for private sector investment through mechanisms like carbon trading.
Main outcomes included the adoption of strategic recommendations focused on four themes: establishing a united regional voice, promoting eco-engineering capacity, valuing the socio-economic benefits of NbS for livelihoods, and creating policy frameworks for ecosystem-based insurance. This initiative is directly relevant to IORA’s Blue Economy working group, significantly contributing to regional cooperation by providing a roadmap for sustainable coastal management across the Indian Ocean Rim.
