Identifying companies and financial actors exposed to marine tipping points

TL;DR

This study uses satellite data to identify companies and financial actors exposed to marine ecosystem tipping points, highlighting potential risks and opportunities for investors in the ocean economy.

Contribution

It introduces a novel satellite-based approach to link marine ecosystem risks with specific companies and shareholders, revealing exposure to marine tipping points.

Findings

Key countries and companies exposed to marine regime shifts

Identification of shareholders linked to vulnerable fishing activities

Potential economic impacts of marine ecosystem shifts on investors

Abstract

Climate change and other anthropogenic pressures are likely to induce tipping points in marine ecosystems, potentially leading to declines in primary productivity and fisheries. Despite increasing attention to nature-related financial risks and opportunities within the ocean economy, the extent to which these tipping points could affect investors has remained largely unexplored. Here we used satellite data to track fishing vessels operating in areas prone to marine regime shifts, as identified by their loss of resilience and vulnerability to marine heatwaves, and uncovered their corporate beneficial owners and shareholders. Despite some data gaps, we identified key countries, companies, and shareholders exposed to tipping risk. We also outline the potential challenges and opportunities that these actors may face if marine ecosystems shift to less productive states.