Safeguarding marine ecosystems and society: the role of insurance in protecting nature and supporting sustainable tourism

This report examines how insurance can support the protection and restoration of marine ecosystems such as coral reefs and mangroves, especially in coastal areas vulnerable to natural hazards. It focuses on the Caribbean, where ecosystems are key to reducing disaster risks and supporting tourism.

Findings suggest that healthy ecosystems like coral reefs and mangroves play a major role in reducing damage from hurricanes and storm surges. When these systems are degraded, their ability to protect coastlines drops sharply. Insurance—especially parametric types—can offer rapid funding for restoration. Case studies in Mexico, Belize, and Hawaii show how such insurance can safeguard nature, sustain tourism, and strengthen financial resilience.