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UNOC 2025 - STRENGTHENING OCEAN GOVERNANCE | 29

THE CHALLENGE A FRAMEWORK FOR A
OF SUSTAINABLE FISHING REGENERATIVE BLUE ECONOMY
Towards an Afro-Pacific The discussions featured a variety of views and The second round-table identified some key entry
points for preparing for the future and changing the
revealed the disparity in resource allocation in
blue economy into a nature-positive blue economy,
fisheries. A key theme emerged: while the panellists
including the importance of ‘science for all’,
agreed on the disconnect between global policy and
Blue Economy the realities experienced by local communities, they strengthening private-sector dialogue, stimulating
nature-based policy innovation (the Philippines was
upheld the African continent’s potential to change its
economic models.
given as an example) and creating incentives to turn
They also highlighted the essential role of small-
scale fishing, which remains the cornerstone of the knowledge into action.
blue economy. However, these fisheries are often The panel concluded by outlining a roadmap for moving
neglected in favour of large-scale operations and forward that listed a number of recommendations:
are faced with various challenges that call for better • empowering local communities (education,
sector management at local and global level, including resources, representation at negotiations, training,
co-developing management plans, strengthening etc);
international cooperation, withdrawal of fishing • fostering sustainable blue businesses in order to
subsidies, channelling funds into transformative create a robust blue economy that operates within
interventions, accessible banking systems the ocean’s ecological boundaries (boosting
and creating financial structures that empower mariculture investments, exploring seaweed
communities. farming, developing ecotourism initiatives, etc);
The panellists also recognised that transparent • planning for the long term by integrating climate
finance mechanisms and fair trade rules are essential change considerations and taking into account
for a thriving blue economy, before addressing the the impact on future generations (assessing
recurring topic of integrating traditional knowledge, environmental impact, prioritising mangrove
accumulated over generations, into ocean restoration projects, creating marine protected
conservation efforts. areas, etc);
The human-caused element of ocean changes filled • building a global network (fostering collaboration
the discussions that looked beyond economics to between scientists, policy-makers, businesses
consider the negative impact the upcoming elections and NGOs to share knowledge, resources and
may have on environmental policy, and the growing best practice).
pressure on coastal areas due to climate change and
population displacement. This multi-pronged approach, addressing both
the economic and social aspects of ocean health,
embraces a future in which innovation and collaboration
can catalyse a thriving blue economy. By working
INSIGHT together, African and Pacific countries can harness
the potential of the blue economy to create a future
in which environmental sustainability and economic
“Think like an ocean, act like a person.” prosperity go hand in hand. Collaborative effort will
Meriwether Wilson, co-Director of the require strong leadership, commented Meriwether
Edinburgh Ocean Leaders programme Wilson. And by investing in the next generation of
scientists, researcher João Canning Clode (MARE-
Madeira) went on to say, “African and Pacific nations
can ensure a bright future for their communities”.

Aerial view of the mangrove forest in the Saloum Delta
National Park, Joal Fadiout, Senegal
© Curioso.Photography - stock.adobe.com