This report looks at a number of different technological solutions, outlining both the current state and the future potential for the mapping, monitoring, protection and restoration of blue natural capital. This technology already includes satellites and sonar, drones and computer vision, hyperspectral cameras and environmental DNA. Our vision is for a future when the values provided by the marine environment are quantified and rewarded, where creatures like the native oyster are rightfully acknowledged as very valuable for the services they provide. In this future local communities could deploy inexpensive, out-of-the-box technology to play an active role in monitoring the values provided by their blue natural capital assets. Above all else, technology could ensure that blue carbon and other blue natural capital projects support a healthy, abundant marine environment. If done in the right way, technology could enable a new level of investment in marine conservation and restoration projects. Just like restoration of marine habitats is moving to a more sophisticated seascape approach, so too new combinations of technology could enhance our understanding of the marine environment.
Regeneration Generation
196 countries have committed to protect at least 30 per cent of land and sea by 2030, but to date, only around ten per cent have actually protected 30 per cent of their waters. What is holding them back?
20 October 2026