Blue Economy Magazine Publisher Urges South-South Governors To Invest More In Blue Economy, Unlock Potentials for Blue Growth.

“These industries which include offshore wind, tidal and wave energy, oil and gas production in ultra-deep water and exceptionally harsh environments, offshore aquaculture, seabed mining, cruise tourism, maritime surveillance and marine biotechnology are best fitted to be located in the south-south region.

“Findings indicate that the concept of a “blue economy” emphasizes conservation and sustainable management, based on the premise that healthy ocean ecosystems are more productive and a must for sustainable ocean-based economies.

“The concept of “blue growth” refers to a more sustainable ocean economy, enabling the optimum use of its resources according to the health of the ocean and its ecosystems. Therefore, investing in the Blue Economy means, unlocking the potentials of the ocean to create more jobs and boost the economy.

“As a marine and coastal analogue to the Green Economy, the Blue Economy approach is based on a vision of “improved wellbeing and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities” (UNEP)

Recall that marine resources include: biological diversity (marine biodiversity) ecosystem services from marine ecosystems, such as marine coastal ecosystems and coral reefs, fish and seafood, minerals (for example deep sea mining) oil and gas, renewable energy resources, such as marine energy, sand and gravel and tourism potentials.

“Marine resource often serve important ecological functions, providing coastal protection, and are critical resources for food, energy, tourism and economic development.

“In many parts of the world, such marine and coastal systems are under stress or are threatened from a variety of sources, both human and natural. Karmenu Vella, once said: “If the ocean were a country, it would be the world’s seventh largest economy”, Dr. Kiyaramo said.