Back to Blue Initiative is a collaboration between Economist Impact and the Nippon Foundation, aimed at addressing marine pollution through evidence-based research and advocacy. The initiative focuses primarily on two major forms of ocean pollution: plastic waste and chemical contaminants. Its work is centred on advancing knowledge, policy, and practical solutions that support cleaner and healthier oceans.
A key goal of Back to Blue is to close data gaps related to marine pollution. By generating and consolidating scientific and policy-relevant information, the initiative supports informed decision-making across government, business and civil society. Its research explores the scale and impact of ocean pollution, offering insights that are crucial for policymakers and stakeholders involved in environmental governance.
The initiative operates through a partnership structure. Economist Impact brings analytical and research expertise, while the Nippon Foundation provides philanthropic and strategic support. Together, they engage with a network of academics, NGOs, businesses and international institutions.
Back to Blue contributes to sustainable finance by highlighting the economic risks of ocean degradation and the importance of incorporating marine pollution into environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks. It also explores how finance can support scalable solutions to ocean health challenges.
Resources produced by Back to Blue include reports, policy briefs and commentary focused on pollution sources, regulatory frameworks, and systemic challenges in ocean health. Notable projects include a Chemicals in the Ocean programme and the Plastics Management Index, which assesses how countries are tackling plastic pollution.
Back to Blue does not currently offer databases or tools for public use but provides open-access research that supports greater transparency and global awareness. Its work helps drive cross-sector collaboration and informs policy processes relevant to sustainable development and ocean governance.
