Opinion article by Anwar Zibaoui, General Coordinator of ASCAME

The world is evaluating the effects of COVID-19 and the pathways to recovery, among which blue economy stands out as a post-pandemic priority. The sea has an essential role to play in terms of health, medicine, food and energy security, in mitigation and adaptation to climate change and in scientific research; but also, and perhaps this is most relevant for the future after the virus, in strengthening resilience to prevent other similar shocks.

It is necessary to focus on taking advantage of shared opportunities at a regional and global level to resolve the impact of the coronavirus crisis and work for recovery. Something that becomes evident in the global domain that unites us: the sea. We need to harness that potential, which represents 70% of our planet, to provide the blue boost to our economies, and to build a stronger and more sustainable world.

The ocean is central to life on Earth. It absorbs a quarter of all carbon dioxide emissions and captures more than 90% of the additional heat the emissions generate. The blue economy is valued at more than $ 2.5 billion annually; provides fish and seafood to more than 3 billion people every day, and transports around 90% of world trade. It is a source of energy and a key ingredient to fight disease. For many it is undoubtedly their primary livelihood, a workplace and a home.

The sea for the Mediterranean is determining and also protagonist of everything that happens: livelihood, transportation and communication. It is like the great catalyst of everything that happens, since in one way or another it is always present.

The inhabitants of the Mediterranean depend extensively on the sea. They obtain essential supplies and services, mainly from aquaculture, fishing and tourism. And in fact, the pandemic has put all of this at risk. The global tourism industry will have to face uncertainty and profound challenges in the coming years. The Mediterranean forecasts a 52% decrease in tourist arrivals in 2020 with a 25% drop in GDP. Food security is also at risk because supply chains have been disrupted by quarantines in a sector as vulnerable as fisheries.

The Mediterranean must cooperate to launch and implement a sustainable maritime governance system that will benefit both shores and boost the economic contribution of the oceans, all in the context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

A new economic model is needed to boost the potential of the Mediterranean. There are significant opportunities for investment in blue economy and sustainable development. Therefore, it is necessary to join forces and strengthen the collaboration of business communities related to the regional maritime sector to take advantage of these opportunities and face these challenges.

The so-called blue economy encompasses many sectors with different types of investment opportunities. It is not as easy to define as the green economy, which comprises the so known as clean energy. But blue could be the new green today. This encompasses maritime security and management, transport and port activities, shipbuilding, recycling, offshore energy, bio-prospecting, the role of ecosystems, fishing and aquaculture, services …. In addition, youth education is critical to shaping it: blue economy has the capacity to provide much-needed jobs across the region.

Blue economy is an essential source of wealth and prosperity for the Mediterranean. The region must take advantage of that potential and the growth, employment and investment opportunities it provides. National strategies must clearly identify priorities, develop a strategic vision for sustainable development and guarantee the policies and actions necessary to promote blue economy, in addition to safeguarding the sea.

Sectors of this marine economy rely on natural marine ecosystems and maritime resources. There are obvious interrelationships: tourists require shipping and enjoy traditional fish or seafood. Offshore wind energy can interfere with fishing activities. Shipbuilding and recycling are highly dependent on the demand of the transport sector. Some innovative activities (for example, fishing tourism) further emphasise the importance of integration between different sectors. Adopting an intersectoral approach is crucial to analyse and develop strategies that benefit various economic sectors.

Developing a healthy and sustainable blue economy is a must. Investing in key oceanic actions such as decarbonisation of maritime transport, mangrove conservation and restoration, sustainable production of seafood and the development of renewable energies, provides global benefits. It’s not just about financial benefits, but also about better health outcomes for consumers, richer biodiversity and safer jobs, among other benefits. A sustainable sea must be seen not only as a conservation imperative, but also as a priority for the future of the economy, the ecosystem and society.