The ocean as the engine of sustainable economic growth

The ocean makes a significant contribution to society in terms of food supply and energy generation. However, we must also recognise that offshore economic activities have a particular impact on the marine environment. 

Sustainable use of the ocean, one of the key elements of Sustainable Development Goal  14 of the United Nations, is therefore highly important. To achieve this goal, the UN and the European Union are investing in the transition to a blue economy. 

The United Nations describe the blue economy as a wide range of economic activities linked to the ocean, seas and coastal areas having a sustainable and socially responsible character.

An important aspect is that the blue economy should promote economic growth, social inclusion as well as the preservation or improvement of livelihoods, while also ensuring the environmental sustainability of the ocean and coastal areas. 

In addition, the blue economy enables us to produce green energy and combat climate change. Especially offshore wind energy has seen considerable growth in the past few years. 

To achieve Sustainable Development Goal 14 worldwide, the United Nations organised an international conference on the topic “Oceans” from 27 June to 1 July 2022. The focus was on protecting our ocean and safeguarding our future.

The programme of the conference included several plenary interactive sessions on topics such as sustainable fishing, acidification and warming of the ocean, as well as the management, protection, conservation and restoration of marine and coastal ecosystems.