Marine Biodiversity and the blue Economy: A critical Examination of Conservation and sustainable Use

Abstract

Occupying over 70% of the Earth’s surface, the oceans host a remarkable biodiversity and play a central role in the livelihoods of millions of people. Over the last few years, there has been a strong worldwide push to position the Blue Economy as a key principle for driving economic growth, creating jobs and supporting sustainable use of marine resources. The rise of the Blue Economy, however, is a double-edged sword in relation to marine biodiversity conservation. This study provides strong evidence to support for the relationship between marine diversity and Blue Economy, stressing the need to address conservation priorities within Blue Economy practices to achieve sustainable development objectives. The paper examines how activities like fisheries, aquaculture, tourism and offshore energy development affect marine ecosystems through a review of international frameworks, national policies and case studies. In addition, it explores governance mechanisms, stakeholder roles and financing models that facilitate sustainable marine development. Responses to the challenge of ensuring that the Blue Economy can contribute to both inclusive and sustainable growth have been varied, with studies finding that lack of appropriate regulation of the Blue Economy, fragmentation of governance structures and insufficient consideration of ecological constraints could make the sustainability of the Blue Economy less robust. The authors finish the paper with strategic recommendations for achieving balance between the goals of the long term sustainability of marine ecosystems, and ensuring fair and equitable economic gains for coastal and island communities.