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Blue Economy

The ‘Blue Economy’ is a term that has emerged in the past decade, in response to environmental, resource and social challenges in ocean and coastal use and management. Whilst a contested concept, most interpretations embrace the opportunities associated with the ocean, whilst recognizing, accounting for and addressing its threats. The Blue Economy is therefore an idea, which recognizes the multiple benefits of marine and coastal ecosystems for current and future generations and the need for sustainable use and development of these resources.

Key components of the blue economy are generally considered to include:

  • ecosystem based management of fisheries,
  • restoration and maintenance of blue carbon elements including mangroves,
  • salt marshes and sea grass,
  • sustainable sea transport,
  • environmentally responsible aquaculture development and
  • the production of ocean renewable energy from offshore wind, waves, currents and tides.  

ANCORS staff and fellows have a wide range of professional expertise and research experience across all aspects of the blue economy. This includes exploration of integrated approaches to blue economy governance, and methods of ensuring socially equitable and inclusive blue economy development. Current research projects within ANCORS also encompass diverse aspects of the blue economy including sustainable development of fisheries in the Pacific, the viability of deep seabed mining in the Pacific and the restoration and maintenance of blue carbon elements in the Asia Pacific. In addition, ANCORS has an established reputation for high quality professional training courses and capacity building in all aspects of the blue economy.

Blue Futures

A key Blue Economy initiative for ANCORS is the Blue Futures Translational Research Initiative (BF-TRI).

Discover more on our project: BF-TRI Explore the Global Challenge

ANCORS Staff

Aurélie Delisle

Anna Farmery

Richard Kenchington

Candice Visser

Michelle Voyer

Robin Warner 

 

Partners

Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council

NSW Department of Primary Industries

Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation

University of New South Wales

University of Technology, Sydney