Innovative Finance Approaches Addressing River Basin Pollution: Combating Aquatic Biodiversity Loss in Southeast Asia

This report outlines the cascading environmental, social, and economic impacts of aquatic biodiversity loss in Southeast Asia and recommends ways to develop scalable projects that tackle river pollution and support sustainable development.

Focusing on the Mekong and other major rivers, the report explains the effects of rapid urbanization, climate change, and industrialization on river basin pollution in the region where 110 million people lack access to safe water. It outlines how a combination of financing mechanisms such as blue bonds, nature-based solutions including mangrove reforestation, and policy reforms could help improve river health and unlock the region's economic potential.