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Abstract

Although no specific definition is designated for this term, this concept has been previously defined based on the field of application and utilization. The blue economy refers to the sustainable utilization of ocean and coastal resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation while preserving the health of marine ecosystems. It is also regarded as an economic concept encompassing various economic activities in the ocean and coastal area, including traditional activities such as fishing, shipping, and shipbuilding, as well as newer activities such as offshore wind and wave energy, ocean-based aquaculture, and marine biotechnology. It is defined as the range of economic activities in the coastal zone and on the ocean, including shipping, fishing, oil and gas extraction, tourism, and renewable energy production. Generally, the blue economy mainly focuses on the responsible extraction and utilization of marine resources required to enhance ocean-based economies while adopting more balanced conservation measures to ensure resource sustainability.
B
Blue Economy (Sustainability)
Isa Olalekan Elegbede
1,2
,
Shehu Latunji Akintola
1
,
Abayomi Abdul-Azeez Jimoh
1
,
Toheeb Lekan Jolaosho
1
,
Simone Smith-Godfrey
3,4
, Anabela Oliveira
3,4
,
Amos Olayinka Oladosu
2
,
Debora Critina Ramalho
3,4,5
,
Rasheed Olatunji Moruf
3,4
, Success Afolabi
1
and
Ayodele Oloko
3,4
1
Department of Fisheries, Lagos State University,
Lagos, Nigeria
2
Department of Environmental Planning,
Brandenburg University of Technology, Cottbus,
Germany
3
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture,
Bayero University Kano, Kano, Kano State,
Nigeria
4
Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, The
University of British Columbia, Vancouver,
BC, Canada
5
Fisheries department, Fisheries Institute, São
Paulo State, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Synonyms
Bioeconomy;Blue growth;Ocean economy;
Ocean sustainability
Definition
Although no specicdenition is designated for
this term, this concept has been previously dened
based on the eld of application and utilization.
The blue economy refers to the sustainable
utilization of ocean and coastal resources for eco-
nomic growth, improved livelihoods, and job cre-
ation while preserving the health of marine
ecosystems. It is also regarded as an economic
concept encompassing various economic activities
in the ocean and coastal area, including traditional
activities such as shing, shipping, and shipbuild-
ing, as well as newer activities such as offshore
wind and wave energy, ocean-based aquaculture,
and marine biotechnology. It is dened as the range
of economic activities in the coastal zone and on
the ocean, including shipping, shing, oil and gas
extraction, tourism, and renewable energy produc-
tion. Generally, the blue economy mainly focuses
on the responsible extraction and utilization of
marine resources required to enhance ocean-based
economies while adopting more balanced conser-
vation measures to ensure resource sustainability.
Introduction
The blue economyor sustainable ocean-based
economycomprises several economic and gov-
ernmental sectors whose primary objectives are to
responsibly boost economic and social
© Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2023
S. O. Idowu et al. (eds.), Encyclopedia of Sustainable Management,
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-02006-4_401-1
development to guarantee the long-term sustain-
ability of the seas and coastlines. These blue eco-
systems and their resources, such as mangroves,
are also known to protect beaches and coastal
regions from unexpected storms and ooding,
thereby facilitating habitat biodiversity, climate
control, carbon storage, and detoxication.
Marine and coastal ecosystems provide
two-thirds of all critical services. Subsistence sh-
ing and farming have beneted most indigenous
people, especially in coastal settlements, from
marine resources (Elegbede et al., 2023a,b;
Okafor-Yarwood et al., 2020).
Over the years, incidents involving the
extreme depletion of many aquatic resources due
to anthropogenic activities, notably for prot gen-
eration, have been observed (Jolaosho &
Olorunniyi, 2022). The effects of these stresses
on the aquatic environment include acidication,
pollution, ocean warming, eutrophication, sher-
ies collapse, loss of marine species, destruction of
breeding grounds, and instability of ecosystems
(Leadley, 2010; Naggar, 2020). This issue
demands an immediate response since the adverse
effects will have long-term consequences for the
planets health. To protect these resources for a
sustainable blue economy, it is necessary to
employ proper management strategies. The blue
economy is the sustainable use of ocean and
coastal resources for economic development, bet-
ter livelihoods, and job creation while maintaining
the health of marine ecosystems (United Nations
Development Programme, 2016). It includes his-
toric operations such as shing, shipping, ship-
building, and recent activities such as offshore
wind and wave energy, ocean-based aquaculture,
and marine biotechnology. It is the spectrum of
economic activity in the coastal zone and on the
ocean, including shipping, shing, oil and gas
exploitation, tourism, and the generation of
renewable energy (Halpern, 2015).
The worlds foremost economists presented a
technique for achieving sustainability many years
ago. Nevertheless, Belgian economist Gunter
Pauli created the notion of the blue economy in
2011, and the United Nations Development Pro-
gramme embraced it in 2014. Since then, govern-
ments and stakeholders have recognized it as a
crucial strategy for achieving sustainable devel-
opment and tapping the potential of the ocean
economy (United Nations Development Pro-
gramme, 2016). In recent years, the blue economy
idea has gained traction as the contribution of the
ocean economy to sustainable development has
been widely acknowledged (Brouwer &
Heesterbeek, 2018).
Developed countries have embraced and
implemented the recommended paradigm in var-
ious sustainable development applications
(Martnez-Vázquez et al., 2021; Brears, 2021;
Nash & Herscovitch, 2018; Elegbede et al.,
2023a,b; United Nations Development Pro-
gramme, 2016; Elegbede 2021; Krause, 2019).
Benefits of a Sustainable Blue Economy
A sustainable blue economy is necessary to attain
the United Nations Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) and maintain coastal and island
populationslong-term prosperity and well-
being. The ocean economy is anticipated to qua-
druple by 2030, reaching approximately $3 trillion
(United Nations Development Programme,
2018). This economy has enormous potential for
economic expansion, job creation, and poverty
alleviation, especially in developing nations. In
addition, the sustainable blue economy may play
a signicant role in tackling global concerns such
as climate change, food insecurity, and biodiver-
sity loss (United Nations Development Pro-
gramme, 2018). It is seen as a technique for
promoting sustainable development in coastal
regions and tiny island governments and a possi-
ble means of combating poverty and inequality
(Halpern, 2015).
The increasing popularity and acceptance of
the blue economy idea were due to its capacity
to govern and protect marine environments sus-
tainably and healthily, cut emissions, and address
climate change challenges. There has been a sig-
nicant increase in the population of renewable
energy sectors, with the ocean serving as the pri-
mary source of renewable resources. Wind,
hydropower, and tidal energy are also associated
with maritime ecosystems. For all energy sources
2 Blue Economy (Sustainability)
in the water to be exploited, it is necessary to
establish specic criteria. To create wind farms,
for instance, industrial experts and workers must
be consulted; this indicates that the ocean pro-
vides employment prospects in various industrial
disciplines, particularly construction.
Further advantages of the blue economy
include offshore wind, wave, and tidal energy
generation; offshore sh farming; ocean sedi-
ments collected through dredging; and blue bio-
technology, which uses marine resources such as
shellsh, bacteria, and algae for medicinal and
energy production reasons. The blue economy
has often been employed throughout international
business transactions as a mode of conveyance for
commodities. The European Union (EU) and the
United Nations (UN) have enacted measures and
policies that will aid in preserving ocean resources
and limiting the impact of climate change on the
blue economy over a very long period so that
these resources can be explored for their eco-
nomic benets in a more sustainable manner.
Differences Between the Blue Economy
and Ocean Economy
The terms blue economyand ocean economy
are frequently used interchangeably, although
they have distinct implications. The ocean econ-
omy comprises all economic activities related to
the ocean, including transportation, tourism, and
offshore energy production. In contrast, the blue
economy is a subset of the ocean economy that
focuses on the sustainable use of ocean resources
for economic growth and job creation while pro-
tecting the health of the ocean ecosystem
(Ryabibin et al., 2019). The blue economy empha-
sizes the need for collaboration and stakeholder
engagement in the sustainable management of
ocean resources, which is another essential
differentiator. When designing and implementing
sustainable ocean policies, the blue economy con-
siders the interests of all stakeholders, including
local communities, government agencies, and the
corporate sector (Voyer & van Leeuwen, 2019;
Islam & Mostaque, 2016; Patil et al., 2018; Sarker
et al., 2019; Bari, 2017).
The blue economy is more concerned with the
health of the ocean ecosystem. It aims to promote
the conservation and sustainable use of marine
resources. At the same time, the ocean economy
focuses primarily on the economic benets
derived from the ocean and coastal areas (United
Nations Regional Information Centre for Western
Europe, 2022).
Economic Activities in the Blue Economy
The contributions of industries involved in the
blue economy concept while operating sustain-
ably to ensure the sustainability of coastal and
marine resources are as follows.
Fisheries and Aquaculture
The industry includes capturing wild sh and
shellsh and cultivating aquatic plants and ani-
mals in marine and freshwater habitats. Almost
2 million Nigerians rely on the shing industry,
making it a signicant business (Federal Ministry
of Agriculture and Rural Development, 2019).
The worldwide shery and shery product busi-
ness is valued at over $150 billion, and over
500 million people rely on the industry for their
lives (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2020).
The aquaculture industry has grown at a pace of
4.8% annually since 2000, making it the fastest-
growing food production sector (World Bank,
2018). With an estimated value of $1.5 billion,
the shing sector in Nigeria is a substantial eco-
nomic contributor (Federal Ministry of Agricul-
ture and Rural Development, 2019). In addition to
overshing; illicit, unreported, unregulated sh-
ing; and the destruction of coastal and marine
environments, the industry faces various issues
(Food and Agriculture Organization, 2020). Poor
infrastructure, low nances, and a lack of techno-
logical access are obstacles confronting the Nige-
rian shing sector (Federal Ministry of
Agriculture and Rural Development, 2019).
Nonetheless, there is potential for sustainable
growth, including expanding aquaculture,
adopting sustainable shing techniques, and
Blue Economy (Sustainability) 3
using new technology (Federal Ministry of Agri-
culture and Rural Development, 2019).
Maritime Transport and Logistics
The marine transport industry comprises cargo
shipping, cruise ships, and ferry services, among
other operations (Krause, 2019). It is crucial in
international trade and business, linking nations
and regions by transporting products and people.
Almost 90% of Nigerias import and export com-
merce is performed via its ports, making the
marine industry substantially contribute to its
economy (Nigerian Ports Authority, 2020). The
worldwide marine transport business is worth
more than $375 billion. The shipping industry
alone accounts for over 90% of the global com-
merce volume (United Nations Conference on
Trade and Development, 2020).
Additionally, the industry employs millions of
people, including sailors and port employees
(International Transport WorkersFederation,
2020). In Nigeria, the marine industry, directly
and indirectly, employs approximately 100,000
people (Nigerian Ports Authority, 2020). Overca-
pacity, increasing competition, and a deciency of
efciency are difculties affecting the industry
(United Nations Conference on Trade and Devel-
opment, 2020). There are also worries over the
sectors environmental effects, including green-
house gas emissions and marine pollution. In
Nigeria, the industry faces obstacles such as insuf-
cient infrastructure, a weak regulatory frame-
work, and insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea
(Nigerian Ports Authority, 2020). There are pros-
pects for sustainable development, including
adopting new technology, such as digitalization,
automation, and alternative fuels, and applying
sustainable practices, such as enhanced energy
efciency and emission reduction (Nigerian
Ports Authority, 2020).
Offshore Energy Production
Offshore energy production includes oil and gas
extraction, wind and wave energy, and ocean
thermal energy conversion. The oil and gas indus-
try substantially contributes to Nigerias econ-
omy, accounting for more than 90% of export
prots and more than 70% of government income
(National Petroleum Corporation, 2020). Approx-
imately 30% of world oil output and 20% of
global gas production originate from offshore
sources, valuing the global offshore oil and gas
business at more than $200 billion (Hughes,
2020). The oil and gas industry in Nigeria con-
tributes signicantly to the countrys economy,
with an estimated value of over $300 billion
(Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation,
2020). The industry faces resource depletion,
environmental consequences, and oil price vola-
tility (Baker Hughes, 2020). In Nigeria, the indus-
try faces obstacles such as insufcient
infrastructure, a weak regulatory framework, and
insecurity in the Niger Delta area (Nigerian
National Petroleum Corporation, 2020).
Coastal and Marine Tourism
Coastal and marine tourism encompasses beach
vacations, ecotourism, and cruise ship travel,
among other things. Tourism is a rapidly
expanding business in Nigeria, emphasizing the
countrys cultural diversity and natural features
(Federal Ministry of Information and Culture,
2020). The coastal and marine tourism industry
is worth approximately $300 billion. More than
1 billion international tourists visit coastal regions
annually (World Tourism Organization, 2020).
The tourist business in Nigeria contributes signif-
icantly to the countrys economy, with an esti-
mated value of over $1 billion (Federal Ministry
of Information and Culture, 2020). Overtourism,
environmental deterioration, and the effects of
climate change are some of the issues confronting
the industry (World Tourism Organization, 2020).
Nigerias industry needs more infrastructure, a
weak regulatory environment, and no marketing
activities (Federal Ministry of Information and
Culture, 2020). Nevertheless, there are also
chances for sustainable growth, such as creating
sustainable tourist destinations, adopting
4 Blue Economy (Sustainability)
sustainable practices, and using new technology
(Federal Ministry of Information and Culture,
2020).
Biotechnology and Marine-Based
Renewable Energy
Biotechnology and marine-based renewable
energy involve the creation of novel marine
goods and services and the use of ocean resources
for energy production. Biotechnology is a rapidly
expanding industry in Nigeria, emphasizing the
creation of new marine-based goods and services
(Federal Ministry of Science and Technology,
2020). The value of the worldwide biotechnology
and marine-based renewable energy market
exceeds $200 billion, with tremendous develop-
ment potential in sectors such as marine biotech-
nology, aquaculture, and ocean energy
(International Energy Agency, 2020). In Nigeria,
the industry is still in its infancy. Nevertheless, it
could become a substantial economic contributor
(Federal Ministry of Science and Technology,
2020).
The industry faces obstacles such as a lack of
investment, poor infrastructure, and research and
development funding (Federal Ministry of Sci-
ence and Technology, 2020). However, there is
potential for sustainable growth, including creat-
ing new marine-based goods and services,
implementing sustainable practices, and using
new technology (Federal Ministry of Science
and Technology, 2020).
Seabed Mining
Copper, gold, and zinc are among the minerals
that mining may extract from the seaoor (Inter-
national Seabed Authority, 2020). The value of
the worldwide seabed mining industry exceeds
$50 billion, with tremendous growth potential as
new technologies and rising mineral demand
drive exploration and development. The industry
faces obstacles such as increased awareness of the
environmental effects of seabed mining, insuf-
cient laws, and the need for further research and
development (International Seabed Authority,
2020). Nevertheless, there are prospects for sus-
tainable growth, such as developing sustainable
mining methods and using new technology (Inter-
national Seabed Authority, 2020).
Maritime Engineering and Construction
Marine construction and engineering aspects
include developing and maintaining offshore
structures, ports, and shipyards. Marine construc-
tion and engineering are a rapidly expanding
industry in Nigeria that emphasizes building new
ports and shipyards and maintaining and
extending current infrastructure (Nigerian Ports
Authority, 2020). The worldwide maritime con-
struction and engineering industry is valued at
over $200 billion, with tremendous development
potential in offshore wind, ports, and shipyards
(Frost & Sullivan, 2020). The industry is a sub-
stantial economic contributor in Nigeria, esti-
mated at $2 billion (Nigerian Ports Authority,
2020). The industry faces obstacles such as a
lack of investment, poor infrastructure, and
research and development funding (Nigerian
Ports Authority, 2020). However, there are pros-
pects for sustainable growth, such as creating
sustainable infrastructure, implementing sustain-
able practices, and using new technology (Nige-
rian Ports Authority, 2020).
Blue Carbon
Blue carbon is the carbon stored in coastal and
marine ecosystems, including mangroves,
seagrasses, and salt marshes. The worldwide
blue carbon market is estimated at over $50 bil-
lion. It has tremendous potential for carbon
sequestration and emission reductions (United
Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change, 2020).
The industry faces obstacles such as a better
understanding of blue carbons potential, weak
laws, and further research and development.
Nonetheless, there is potential for sustainable
development, including protecting and restoring
Blue Economy (Sustainability) 5
coastal and marine ecosystems and using blue
carbon for carbon offsetting and sequestration
(United Nations Framework Convention on Cli-
mate Change, 2020).
Challenges and Opportunities
Problems confronting the blue economy: over-
shing, pollution, coastal development, and cli-
mate change are among the issues facing the blue
economy. These obstacles may hinder the sustain-
able growth of the blue economy and coastal
populationsmeans of subsistence. For instance,
overshing has caused the depletion of sh
populations, which has economic and ecological
repercussions (Costello et al., 2012). Likewise,
pollution from plastic trash, pesticides, and oil
spills has devastating consequences for marine
species and environments (Gregory & Ryan,
2009). Coastal development and urbanization
have also led to the loss and deterioration of
mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes, among
other ecosystems (Pendleton et al., 2012). In con-
trast, climate change is generating sea level rise,
ocean acidication, and changes in ocean currents
and temperature regimes, all of which may impact
marine ecosystems and the services they offer
(IPCC, 2019).
Growth and innovation potential in the blue
economy: Notwithstanding these obstacles, there
are growth and innovation opportunities in the
blue economy. For instance, sustainable aquacul-
ture may offer a reliable food supply and revenue
while safeguarding wild sh populations (FAO,
2020). In addition, the blue economy can provide
employment, drive economic expansion, and con-
tribute to the sustainable development of coastal
towns.
Policies and measures to encourage the sus-
tainable growth of the blue economy: Sustain-
able development policies and strategies must be
implemented to overcome these obstacles and
achieve the potential benets of the blue econ-
omy. These policies and initiatives include
establishing protected areas, protecting and
restoring coastal and marine ecosystems, and
reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To over-
come these difculties and support the sustain-
able growth of the blue economy, it is crucial to
emphasize the integration of sectoral activity and
the engagement of stakeholders. In Nigeria, for
instance, the government has developed the Inte-
grated Coastal Zone Management Project
(ICZMP) to promote sustainable development
in coastal regions by integrating sectoral opera-
tions and involving stakeholders (Shah &
Ramesh, 2022) . This initiative strives to solve
coastal erosion, pollution, and overshing chal-
lenges by applying laws, regulations, and man-
agement plans. In addition, Nigerias Ministry of
Environment has developed a National Biodiver-
sity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) to guide
the protection and sustainable use of biodiversity
in the nation (Kumar et al., 2021). This policy
directs the countrys protection and sustainable
marine and coastal biodiversity use. It relates to
the worldwide biodiversity objectives
established by the Convention on Biological
Diversity.
The blue economy may signicantly alleviate
poverty in coastal areas by providing employ-
ment, income, and food security. In Nigeria, for
instance, the shing sector employs and supports
millions of people, mainly in coastal towns
(FAO, 2020). Similarly, developing sustainable
tourism may offer local populations jobs and
income while safeguarding marine and coastal
ecosystems (WTO, 2020). The potential of the
blue economy in various regions vary by geog-
raphy and the accessibility of marine resources
and infrastructure. Through the growth of sectors
such as sheries, tourism, and renewable energy,
the blue economy can provide substantial eco-
nomic and social advantages in Nigeria, for
example (Federal Ministry of Environment,
2020). In addition, the nation has enormous
potential for the growth of the offshore oil and
gas industry, which is a signicant source of
government income and job opportunities for
its residents.
6 Blue Economy (Sustainability)
Future Directions
With an expanding worldwide population and need
for food and energy, there is a growing need for the
sustainable use of marine resources, which bodes
well for the future of the blue economy. The blue
economy is anticipated to expand and be a signi-
cant economic growth and social development
source. To guarantee the conservation of marine
and coastal ecosystems and the well-being of coastal
populations, however, this expansion must be
guided by sustainable development principles. The
sustainable growth of the blue economy requires a
comprehensive strategy that considers its economic,
social, and environmental elements. Moreover, the
sustainable growth of the blue economy demands
global cooperation and collaboration since the blue
economy is a global problem that impacts all nations
and areas. Participation from all stakeholders,
including governments, the commercial sector,
civil society, and local communities, should be
needed.
It is essential to implement laws and regulations
that encourage the conservation of marine
resources to maintain the long-term growth of the
blue economy. Implementing measures such as
marine protected zones, sustainable shing tech-
niques, and catch limits may be necessary. Encour-
agement of sustainable economic activities, such as
sustainable aquaculture, ecotourism, and marine-
based renewable energy, is also advantageous and
may be accomplished via R&Dfunding and private
sector involvement incentives. In addition, it is
necessary to adapt to the consequences of climate
change on the blue economy by developing steps to
address increasing sea levels, ocean acidication,
and severe weather events. Adopting an integrated
approach to coastal zone management that con-
siders the blue economys economic, social, and
environmental components and incorporates all
stakeholders may contribute to sustainable devel-
opment. Global pollution, overshing, and climate
change need international collaboration. Inclusiv-
ity and poverty reduction may be promoted by
integrating underrepresented populations and
establishing income-generating opportunities.
Summary
The blue economy is the sustainable use of ocean
and coastal resources for economic development,
enhanced livelihoods and employment, and the
health of ocean ecosystems. It includes sheries
and aquaculture, maritime transportation and
logistics, offshore energy production, coastal and
marine tourism, biotechnology and marine-based
renewable energy, seabed mining, marine con-
struction and engineering, and blue carbon. The
blue economy can stimulate economic develop-
ment and enhance coastal townsliving standards.
Nevertheless, the sustainable growth of the blue
economy faces various obstacles, such as over-
shing, pollution, coastal development, and cli-
mate change, which may have a detrimental
impact on the lives of coastal populations and
the sustainable development of the blue economy.
Sustainable development policies and strategies
must be implemented to overcome these obstacles
and achieve the potential benets of the blue
economy. This initiative encompasses sustainable
management of marine resources, promoting sus-
tainable economic activities, adaptation to climate
change, integrated coastal zone management,
international collaboration, inclusion, poverty
reduction, research and monitoring, and education
and awareness.
Cross-References
Blue Ocean Strategy
Blue Circular Economy
Ocean Sustainability
Sustainability Ethics
Sustainability Science
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Blue Economy (Sustainability) 9
... Similarly, another study by Bădîrcea et al. (2021) analyzed the co-integration among blue economy, economic development, and greenhouse gas emissions and found that maritime transport contributes majorly and impacts the environment. Implementing policies, rules, and regulations helps promote blue economy activities; developing metrics such as marine conservation zones and sustainable practices for fishing are necessary (Elangovan et al. 2023;Elegbede et al. 2023). Recent studies related to the blue economy are given in Table 1. ...
... Moreover, Trivedi et al. (2023) mentioned that a lack of skilled crew and experts impedes the adoption of the blue economy. Furthermore, stakeholders' participation and collaboration play a crucial role in the overall sustainable growth of the blue economy (Elegbede et al. 2023). Table 2 shows the list of barriers identified through the literature and considered in this study. ...
Article
A sustainable blue economy is primarily intended for responsible consumption of ocean resources, achieving economic growth, and strengthening the overall ecosystem. The roots of the blue economy are embedded in sustainable development, exploiting opportunities for economic welfare and growth, simultaneously focusing on conserving marine health. A sustainable blue economy helps protect and restore ocean health and its ecosystem, facilitating biodiversity and reducing environmental degradation. Moreover, it provides sustainable ways for social well‐being by supporting the livelihood of the people living in nearby areas. However, adopting a blue economy is complex, as highlighted in the literature. Therefore, in the presented research, the barriers to adopting a blue economy are investigated using scholarly research and verified using expert opinions. Moreover, we used a hybrid approach in this proposed research, a Fermatean Fuzzy Set‐based Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and a Decision‐Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL). The research results show that the marine environment and technological infrastructure are the most significant barriers. The research results are highly insightful for business professionals, policymakers, and researchers trying to adopt sustainable blue economy practices successfully. Also, it will mitigate environmental issues, improve ocean health, and improve sustainable fisheries and aquaculture.
... At the heart of this transformation is the integration of renewable energy sources (RES) such as wind and solar power, which are pivotal for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering energy independence. However, the intermittent nature of these energy sources presents a considerable challenge for energy systems, necessitating innovative solutions for storage and grid stability (Sensfuss and Pfluger, 2014; Elegbede et al., 2023) [19,10] . Power-to-gas (PtG) technology has emerged as a promising approach to address the intermittency of RES by converting surplus electricity into hydrogen or methane, which can then be stored or utilized within the existing gas network (Dominik et al., 2010) [13] . ...
... At the heart of this transformation is the integration of renewable energy sources (RES) such as wind and solar power, which are pivotal for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering energy independence. However, the intermittent nature of these energy sources presents a considerable challenge for energy systems, necessitating innovative solutions for storage and grid stability (Sensfuss and Pfluger, 2014; Elegbede et al., 2023) [19,10] . Power-to-gas (PtG) technology has emerged as a promising approach to address the intermittency of RES by converting surplus electricity into hydrogen or methane, which can then be stored or utilized within the existing gas network (Dominik et al., 2010) [13] . ...
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The urgent need for sustainable and stable energy systems has propelled the exploration of innovative solutions like Power-to-Gas (PtG) technology, which offers a promising pathway to integrate renewable energy sources (RES) into existing energy infrastructures. This study delves into the economic viability and operational efficiency of employing biological methanation processes within PtG systems, with a particular focus on the trickle bed methanation technique. By converting excess renewable electricity into hydrogen and subsequently methane, PtG technology represents a strategic approach to mitigate the intermittency of renewable sources such as wind and solar power. This research assesses the operational parameters and economic implications of utilizing proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers and biological methanation in the context of fluctuating electricity prices and regulatory environments. Furthermore, it examines the potential of retrofitting existing biogas plants for methane production through biological methanation, thus leveraging existing infrastructure for enhanced energy storage and grid stability. The findings highlight the critical factors influencing the economic feasibility of PtG technology, including investment and operational costs, and propose strategic recommendations to enhance its market penetration and viability. This comprehensive analysis underscores the significance of PtG technology, particularly biological methanation, as a cornerstone for achieving a sustainable and resilient energy future.
... The natural resources on which small-scale fishing communities in Sub-Saharan Africa depend are crucial for both their economic sustainability and as a nutritional resource in challenging times (Brashares et al. 2014;Fakoya et al. 2022). Yet, the widespread depletion of fish stocks across the continent (Belhabib et al. 2015;Okafor-Yarwood et al. 2019) results in numerous adverse socio-economic and developmental consequences, including abusive labour conditions, food and nutrition insecurity, harmful fishing practices, and fish-for-sex exchanges (Belton and Thilsted 2014;Elegbede et al. 2023aElegbede et al. , 2023b. Previous qualitative studies by Fiorella et al. (2015) have explored how declining fish stocks influence fish-for-sex exchanges, revealing that severe fish shortages might prompt transactional sex, thereby altering gender power dynamics (Kyei-Gyamfi 2023). ...
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The natural resources on which small-scale fishing communities in Sub-Saharan Africa depend are crucial for both their economic sustainability and as a nutritional resource in challenging times. Yet, the widespread depletion of fish stocks across the continent results in numerous adverse socio-economic and developmental consequences, including abusive labour conditions, food and nutrition insecurity, harmful fishing practices, and fish-for-sex exchanges.
... initiatives empower local fishing communities to collectively manage and regulate their fishing activities, taking into account ecological considerations and traditional knowledge. By fostering local stewardship, community-managed fisheries contribute to sustainable resource use and enhance resilience to environmental changes (Ferrol-Schulte et al., 2015)[7].Certification programs also play a significant role in seafood sustainability efforts in Ondo State.Certifications such as Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) provide market incentives for fisheries and aquaculture operations that meet specific sustainability criteria. These programs help improve fishing practices, reduce environmental impacts, and enhance market access for sustainably sourced seafood products. ...
Research
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This study examines non-state seafood sustainability schemes within the social-ecological systems of Ondo State's blue economy. The blue economy framework integrates sustainable development principles with maritime activities, emphasizing environmental sustainability alongside economic opportunities. Ondo State, located in Nigeria's coastal region, faces challenges balancing traditional fishing practices with modern sustainability imperatives. Non-state actors, including local communities, NGOs, and private enterprises, play pivotal roles in promoting sustainable seafood practices. This research employs a qualitative approach, incorporating interviews, participant observation, and document analysis to explore these dynamics. Key findings highlight the diversity of non-state initiatives, such as community-managed fisheries, cooperative agreements, and certification schemes, aimed at improving seafood sustainability. These efforts are contextualized within Ondo State's social-ecological systems, considering the interactions between natural environments, fisheries management policies, and community livelihoods. Challenges identified include governance gaps, resource constraints, and the need for capacity building among local stakeholders. The study underscores the importance of integrating local knowledge and practices with global sustainability standards to enhance adaptive capacity and resilience within Ondo State's blue economy.
... In the face of mounting global environmental challenges, the pursuit of sustainable development has gained utmost importance (Biermann, Kanie, & Kim, 2017). The concept of marine sustainability, which is firmly rooted in the values of responsible use of marine resources, has garnered a lot of attention as a potential framework for bringing seemingly unrelated goals within the larger context of the Blue Economy, which is defined by (Elegbede, Akintola, Jimoh, & Jolaosho, 2023) as the sustainable use of ocean and coastal resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and job creation while protecting the health of marine ecosystems. This paradigm has sparked vibrant discussions at the local, national, and international levels by seeking to protect marine ecosystems while advancing economic development. ...
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This collaborative international community service initiative applies the Tri Hita Karana philosophy to improve coral reef conservation at Bali''s Mengiat Beach. The collaboration between Universitas Ngurah Rai and the University of Canberra integrates traditional wisdom and innovative methods, promoting resilience, sustainable practices, and economic growth while adhering to Tri Hita Karana''s holistic principles. The initiative program combines Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and the Mars Assisted Restoration System (MARRS) to safeguard coral ecosystems. Participatory Action Research (PAR) empowers communities, aligning with the holistic principles of Tri Hita Karana. The methodology encompasses preparation, education, hands-on training, beach clean-ups, and continuous evaluation, reinforcing coral preservation while promoting sustainable practices and ecological well-being. These strategies align with the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, promoting local engagement and resource management. The donation of Reef Stars by the universities to the Bali Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Foundation reflects a commitment to environmental well-being and long-term harmony. The Mengiat Beach collaboration by two universities and the Bali Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Foundation integrates traditional wisdom and modern methods within the Tri Hita Karana philosophy. Through education, training, and reef restoration, the initiative emphasizes community engagement and ecological resilience.
Chapter
The integration of Islamic finance into the blue economy reflects a growing commitment to fostering economic growth while ensuring that sustainable finance practices, projects, and product portfolios align with ethical and environmental standards. This study, examines the conceptual and practical dimensions of Islamic finance within the framework of a sustainable blue economy, emphasizing halal sustainability. Through qualitative analysis, the study conducts a critical literature review (CLR) that incorporates conceptual, theoretical, and empirical perspectives. The research identifies the key principles of Islamic finance, such as risk sharing and the prohibition of riba (interest), and explores their application to marine resource management, environmental conservation, and economic activities within the blue economy. The findings highlight the potential for Islamic finance to support sustainable development in marine-based industries, while also addressing the challenges and opportunities in aligning these practices with Shariah principles. This research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable development by revealing the synergies between Islamic finance and the blue economy, offering new perspectives and practical models for achieving Halal sustainability.
Chapter
The global food industry is increasingly challenged by the need to meet the rising demand for halal-certified products, particularly in the fisheries sector. The growing global Muslim population drives this demand, projected to reach nearly 30% of the world’s total population by 2050. The challenge lies in adhering to Islamic dietary laws and integrating these religious principles with modern concerns about food safety, sustainability, and ethical animal treatment. This study addresses the problem of aligning halal certification with ethical and sustainable practices in the fisheries and aquatic products sectors. The research explores how Islamic jurisprudence can be applied to contemporary food production processes, focusing on the complexities of certifying various aquatic species, particularly shellfish, which are subject to differing interpretations. Additionally, the study examines the economic potential of utilizing aquatic by-products, such as fish meal, fish oil, collagen, and chitosan, within the halal framework. Through a comprehensive literature review, this research highlights the importance of integrating religious principles with modern ethical concerns to ensure the viability and integrity of halal-certified products in a globalized market. The findings provide valuable insights for industry stakeholders and policymakers aiming to navigate the complexities of halal certification while promoting sustainability and ethical practices in the fisheries industry.
Chapter
Halal financing aims to achieve economic growth while ensuring that all financial activities comply with Islamic ethics, making it inherently aligned with sustainability goals. This study explores the integration of a sustainable Halal financing framework for the Blue-Green economy, focusing on how Islamic financial principles can be leveraged to promote environmental sustainability and ethical investments. Through qualitative analysis, the study conducts a critical literature review incorporating conceptual, theoretical, and empirical perspectives. The study examines key Shariah-compliant financial instruments such as Sukuk, Mudarabah, Musharakah, and Waqf-based funding, assessing their potential to support projects in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and marine conservation. Additionally, the research identifies challenges such as regulatory complexities, market constraints, and the need for harmonized international standards. By analyzing the intersection of Islamic finance and the Blue-Green economy, this chapter highlights innovative financing mechanisms aligning with Islamic law and sustainability goals. The findings suggest that with the right regulatory support and collaboration between stakeholders, sustainable Halal financing can play a crucial role in fostering a more resilient and inclusive global economy, driving investments in key sectors that contribute to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
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Introduction This study explores the economic and environmental impacts of water resources in the context of achieving climate neutrality in the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR). The research is focused on eight EUSDR member states: Bulgaria, Czechia, Germany, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, Romania, and Slovakia, with the aim of analyzing the dynamic relationship between water resources, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. Given the ambitious goals of the European Green Deal, this study examines how water management can support the transition towards climate neutrality. Methods A dynamic econometric model was developed using a consolidated database of relevant climate neutrality indicators from 2010 to 2021. The selected indicators included GDP per capita, water use in agriculture, gross water abstraction, sewage sludge production, and water productivity. The econometric model was validated using statistical tools such as the One-Sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov Test, and analysis was conducted using Gretl and IBM-SPSS 25 software. Results The findings reveal that water resources management significantly contributes to the achievement of climate neutrality targets. The model achieved over 86% significance in explaining the financial efforts needed to achieve the Green Deal’s 2030 and 2050 goals. Moreover, water productivity and investments in water-related infrastructure were found to play critical roles in ensuring the success of these climate policies. Discussion The results highlight the importance of policy coordination across the EUSDR member states and the need for increased investment in sustainable water resource management. Achieving climate neutrality requires addressing economic disparities between states and enhancing regional cooperation. Conclusion The proposed dynamic model offers a valuable tool for monitoring progress towards climate neutrality, particularly in relation to water resource management. This research underlines the need for targeted policy interventions and investments to meet the Green Deal’s goals while safeguarding the region's water resources.
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In the Global South, small-scale fisheries may be highly influenced by taboos and traditional beliefs that are believed to maintain fishing pressure within sustainable limits, maintain ecosystem balance and mitigate risks associated with work at sea. However, despite their potentially significant role in mediating human-resource interactions, limited attention has been given to taboos in the context of small-scale fisheries. Among the socio-cultural taboos shaping participation in and benefits from fisheries activities, gender-specific taboos are particularly significant. Thus, this paper explores the role of gender taboos in sustainable and equitable small-scale fisheries management in the Global South. It also identifies and assesses the quality and scientific rigor of the key themes from the literature. A systematic literature review was conducted to assess the state of knowledge on taboos and small-scale fisheries and situate the role of gender-specific taboos within small-scale fisheries governance. Over 100 relevant publications were obtained and categorised using scanning and selection methods. The main emerging themes from the literature review included traditional ecological knowledge and taboos, conservation and management taboos, and gender taboos. The findings highlight the significance of taboos in shaping gender dynamics, livelihoods, and food security within small-scale fisheries; however, there remain many gaps in understanding the role of taboos in mediating fishing activities and in maintaining gender inequalities in the fisheries sector. Without this knowledge, gender inequalities could be further exacerbated where taboos are used as a management tool without considering the gender dimensions. This study, therefore, seeks to fill this gap by providing insights for fisheries managers and practitioners for managing fisheries in a way that considers these socio-cultural factors that shape access to, control over and the benefits derived from fisheries.
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The paradigm termed circular blue economy has become a concept that is greatly associated with the utilization of marine resources to ensure continued sustainability. Several constraints and limitations related to plants and plant products means human needs to look beyond green economy. The chemical constituents of animals also allow researchers to evaluate their growth and development. This study evaluates the proximate and chemical compositions of Anadara senilis , Crassostrea gasar , and Mytilus edulis , with emphasizes on their calcium and calcium carbonate contents and industrial importance. A total of 270 live bivalve samples were collected from March to May 2021 from Lagos Lagoon harbour. Each bivalve sample collected was opened to separate the flesh from the species’ shell, sun-dried and transported to the laboratory for analysis. One-way analysis of variance was adopted to estimate the significance level at 5% (P < 0.05). Post-HOC LSD test was performed to verify the disparity of mean. The results of this study revealed that Mytilus edulis shells had the highest moisture, crude protein, and crude fat at 1.15 ± 0.05%, 4.29 ± 0.43%, and 0.96 ± 0.15%, respectively and showed significant difference (P < 0.05). Anadara senilis shells had high levels of calcium (51.00 ± 2.87 mg/kg), magnesium (0.59 ± 0.23 mg/kg) and calcium carbonate (60.91 ± 2.50 mg/kg). Due to the high Ca and CaCO 3 contents obtained, these shells can be processed alongside other biomaterials into food supplements, animal feeds, dental products, plant nutrient supplements, ornamental purpose, construction, agricultural industries among others. These would enhance the development of cottage industries, promotes farming of shell animals, help to alleviate the unemployment crisis and creation of wealth from substances which would have been regarded as waste.
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Over the years, aquatic resources have reduced exponentially due to several factors particularly the influence of human activities. The aftermath of human activities on aquatic environment includes the depletion of species, breeding ground destruction, and fragmentation of the ecosystem and so on. Therefore, this study provides information on the Morphometrics, length-weight relationship, condition factor and guts content of P. elongatus from Mokoko River in Lagos State. The total of 398 fish samples was collected. The collection was performed once in a month for a period of six months, although not consecutive months but between January, 2021 to November, 2021. The highest mean body weight was obtained in the month of July (330±58.0g), while the lowest in September (38.4±70.0g). The month of May with the value of (550-4.3g) represented the widest fish range in a cohort while the least was observed in month of July (330-5.3g). The maximum total length (36.5±5.1cm) and standard length (30±4.3cm) was obtained in the month of July. The female had better sex ratio across the six months except for the month of March. The value of 'b' (growth exponent) for male, female and combined sexes were below 3 indicating negative allometric growth pattern. The results on condition factor of females, male and combined sexes are greater than 1 except the result obtained in the month of March. For gut contents, four major diets (mud, earthworm, fish and crab) were observed indicating predatory nature while mud dominated the gut contents of the fish. The overall result indicated partially healthy ecosystem. Intensive monitoring of this water body should be mandated to ensure sustainability of the fishery. However, further studies in relation to the proximate composition and reproductive aspect of Bobo Croaker and other fish species from the study area should be done in order to update and provide more scientific information.
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Plastic pollution is ubiquitous in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Plastic waste exposed to the environment creates problems and is of significant concern for all life forms. Plastic production and accumulation in the natural environment are occurring at an unprecedented rate due to indiscriminate use, inadequate recycling, and deposits in landfills. In 2019, the global production of plastic was at 370 million tons, with only 9% of it being recycled, 12% being incinerated, and the remaining left in the environment or landfills. The leakage of plastic wastes into terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems is occurring at an unprecedented rate. The management of plastic waste is a challenging problem for researchers, policymakers, citizens, and other stakeholders. Therefore, here, we summarize the current understanding and concerns of plastics pollution (microplastics or nanoplastics) on natural ecosystems. The overall goal of this review is to provide background assessment on the adverse effects of plastic pollution on natural ecosystems; interlink the management of plastic pollution with sustainable development goals; address the policy initiatives under transdisciplinary approaches through life cycle assessment, circular economy, and sustainability; identify the knowledge gaps; and provide current policy recommendations. Plastic waste management through community involvement and socio-economic inputs in different countries are presented and discussed. Plastic ban policies and public awareness are likely the major mitigation interventions. The need for life cycle assessment and circularity to assess the potential environmental impacts and resources used throughout a plastic product’s life span is emphasized. Innovations are needed to reduce, reuse, recycle, and recover plastics and find eco-friendly replacements for plastics. Empowering and educating communities and citizens to act collectively to minimize plastic pollution and use alternative options for plastics must be promoted and enforced. Plastic pollution is a global concern that must be addressed collectively with the utmost priority.
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Background The Blue Economy is a recent field of study that encompasses economic activities that depend on the sea, often associated with other economic sectors, including tourism, maritime transport, energy and fishing. Blue growth supports the sustainable growth of the maritime and marine sectors as the oceans and seas are engines of the global economy and have great potential for growth and innovation. This article undertakes a bibliometric analysis in the terms of Blue Economy (BE), Maritime Economy (MAE), Ocean Economy (OE), Marine Economy (ME), and Blue Growth (BG) to analyze the scientific production of this field of study. Analysis of the authors’ definitions of BE, BG, ME and OE provides interesting relationships divided into sustainability and governance; economics and ecosystem protection; industrial development and localization; and the growth of the ocean economy, with development as the central axis that encompasses them. The main contribution is to find out if there is a link between the BE and the CE through the keyword study. Results The results show a significant increase in articles and citations over the last decade. The articles address the importance of different sectors of BE and the interest of governments in promoting it for the development of their national economies. Using bibliometric mapping tools (VOSviewer), it is possible to find possible links between concepts such as CE and BE through the BG and to visualize trending topics for future research. Nascent and future research trends include terms such as small-scale fisheries, aquatic species, biofuel, growth of the coastal BE, internationalization and blue degrowth (BD), the latter approaches aspects of BG from a critical perspective. Conclusions In conclusion, it highlights the need for alliances between the sectors that compose BG with the incorporation of the CE in order to achieve a sustainable BE in both developed and developing countries. Through the keyword analysis it is shown that the BG strategy is the bridge between the BE and the CE. The CE presents itself as a promising alternative that could mitigate tensions between stakeholders who support both growth and degrowth positions.
Book
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Healthy, Coral reefs are the most spectacular, diverse and economically valuable marine ecosystems on the planet, Complex and productive, coral reefs are extremely important for biodiversity, providing a home to 35,000-60,000 species of plants and animals (over 25% of all marine life), many of which are undescribed by science. They are also vital for people and business. They provide nurseries for many species of commercially important fish, protection of coastal areas from storm waves. They are providing hundreds of billions of dollars in food, jobs and significant attraction for the tourism industry. Yet coral reef ecosystems have undergone phase shifts to alternate, degraded assemblages because of the combined human activates of unsustainable overfishing, intensive tourism, urbanization, sedimentation, declining water quality, pollution and primarily from the direct and indirect impacts of climate change. Most coral ecologists confirmed that coral reef degradation has increased dramatically during the last three decades due to enhanced anthropogenic disturbances and their interaction with natural stressors. So, it is necessary to recognize the threats facing coral reefs from anthropogenic activities and try to minimize and mitigate these impacts.
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Blue Economy is related to economic growth through the sustainable utilization of ocean resources with technological inputs to improve livelihoods. Economically important coastal and marine resources are the main components of the Blue Economy for Bangladesh. These resources are categorized into living, non-living, renewable resources and trade and commerce. As Bangladesh is vulnerable to climate change, related extreme events are making the coastal and marine resources vulnerable which may hamper the smooth Blue Economy development in Bangladesh. Climate change extreme events include warming trend, cyclone, sea level rise, droughts, erosion, tidal surge, saline water intrusion, flood, change in precipitation trend and ocean acidification. These extreme events may cause coral belching, species migration, biodiversity loss, altered species life style, disruption in marine food chain and ultimately will affect the national economy. Thus, it is a prime need to build marine ecosystem's resilience to climate change to get the maximum benefits from ocean. This background paper offers a strategic framework for climate change resilient Blue Economy practice in Bangladesh. This framework is a four steps process (i.e. identification of issues, focus on important areas for climate change resilient Blue Economy development, performing activities for achieving the goal and achievement of goal). Special focus is required on energy efficiency, marine and coastal biodiversity, ecosystem based adaptation, environmental resilience building in the coastal areas, ecosystem restoration, building economic resilience and policy formulation for climate change resilient Blue Economy development. Mangrove plantation, oyster reef building, mussel bed, sea grass bed, salt marsh bed and coral reef conservation, use of renewable energy, special interventions in fisheries and development of islands, crop insurance, salt tolerant and floating agriculture, eco-tourism development, MPA and ecologically critical area declaration, marine spatial planning, policy formulation, institutional integration and continuous ocean monitoring are example of some possible interventions required for climate resilient Blue Economy development in Bangladesh.
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Our civilization needs a clean, resilient, productive, safe, well-observed, documented and predicted ocean. “The ocean we need for the future we want” was the motto of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission proposal to the United Nations to consider the merit of an Ocean Science Decade. By proclaiming the Decade, the UN General Assembly offered the oceanographic community a unique, once in a life-time, opportunity to change the way we do things, make oceanography fit for purpose of effectively supporting sustainable development, and energize the ocean sciences for future generations. The Decade is the chance to put in place a more complete and sustainable observing system and feed the resulting data into a science-based informed decision-making system allowing increased reliance of our civilization on the ocean, its ecosystem services and, at the same time, preserving ocean health. Strong and proactive engagement of the oceanographic community in the design of the Decade and its observing component and subsequent energetic implementation of the ideas are sought. Participants in OceanObs’19 are invited to consider the additional possibilities and requirements associated with the Decade in their contributions to and brainstorming at the Conference. It is essential to use collective wisdom of OceanObs’19 to help developing an ambitious and also realistic implementation plan for the Decade, with a strong observational component.
Article
Mangrove protection and restoration have been prioritised in India, and as a result of concerted interventions by key maritime states, mangrove cover has increased significantly in the last few decades. Mangrove restoration efforts have received considerable attention in the States of Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh for their role in the mitigation of storms and cyclones. The ‘community-based restoration' strategy, in particular, is credited with expansion of mangrove regions across India. This study highlights the mechanism of successful mangrove restoration and conservation through various efforts of the government, private sector, and the coastal community in the state of Gujarat, India. Despite rapid coastal development, mangrove cover has also steadily increased in the last few decades in the State, clearly indicating a balanced approach towards enhancing blue economy. This is credited to the vision of the Government of Gujarat, India for putting in place appropriate policies and their effective implementation. Restoration of degraded mangrove and afforestation of new mangroves were made successful by applying scientific transplantation of saplings, utilization of local resources, involvement of public and private sectors and efficient monitoring activities. The Government of Gujarat has developed a comprehensive approach to integrate diverse sectors to effectively conserve mangroves and adopting a community-based restoration model. Such efforts at the regional level are the first-ever large-scale restoration and afforestation measures in India.
Book
Traditionally, the ocean economy is viewed solely as a mechanism for economic growth. In this business-as-usual approach, large-scale industrial economies have developed the ocean economy through the exploitation of maritime and marine resources, often without consideration of how those activities impact the future health or productivity of those same resources. This has led to aquatic ecosystems being viewed and treated as limitless resources; the marine environment becoming a dumping ground for waste; overfishing diminishing fishing stocks; ocean habitats being degraded from coastal developments; sea-level rise impacting coastal communities and infrastructure; increasing ocean acidification; and the marginalisation of poor coastal communities. Recognising the failings of the traditional ocean economy, there is a transition underway around the world towards the Blue Economy. This concept moves beyond the business-as-usual approach with economic development and ocean health complementary to one another. In the Blue Economy, the environmental risks of and ecological degradation from economic activity are mitigated or significantly reduced. Therefore, economic activity is in balance with the long-term capacity of the ocean ecosystems to support this activity and remain healthy and resilient. This book will provide an overview of the various technologies used to promote cross-sectoral and multi-scalar collaboration, facilitate the integrated management of sectors and resources, foster partnerships between governments and industry, encourage R&D in new technologies in resource use and management, and scale-up innovative financing mechanisms in the development of a Blue Economy. Also, the book will contain in-depth case studies that illustrate how locations, of differing climates, lifestyles and income levels, have implemented technologies to facilitate the development of the Blue Economy. Developing the Blue Economy will provide an accessible resource for practitioners and researchers working in the field on the various innovative technologies being implemented around the world to create a Blue Economy.
Article
The concept of Blue Economy (BE) is recognized as central for sustainable development that incorporates socio-economic benefits and ecological conservation. However, in Africa, much of the emphasis on BE is placed on economic gains; as a result, traditional livelihoods and small-scale local operations are outcompeted by international corporations and government initiatives, with little or no regard for social inclusion and environmental sustainability. We argue that successful BE initiatives in Africa accentuate the involvement of local communities and promote sustenance of the natural ecosystem. We define success in terms of the sustainability balance among ecological, social and economic aspects. Drawing on extensive expert experiences, observational data and literature review of case studies across the African continent, we highlight two critical findings. First, large scale BE initiatives prioritize economic gains at the expense of environmental degradation and the exclusion of local communities. Second, using the full spectrum sustainability (FSS) evaluation, we show that successful BE interventions considered ecological, economic, socio-cultural and institutional objectives. Drawing on these case studies, we propose the adoption of a collaborative framework which amalgamates the top-down and bottom-up approaches to BE management. Achieving the goal of successful blue growth in Africa is now even more challenged by the implications of COVID-19 on the BE sectors. Reimagining and rebuilding a resilient BE in Africa post-coronavirus will require a strong political commitment to promoting a balance between economic, social and environmental benefits in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.