The potential positive impacts of the Blue Economy are particularly significant for islands and communities that depend on the ocean for their livelihoods and cultural identity. For example, in Madeira, an archipelago located off the coast of Portugal, the Blue Economy has played a key role in the region’s economic development. Madeira has implemented several initiatives to promote sustainable tourism and marine conservation, including the creation of marine protected areas and the development of ecotourism activities such as whale watching.
Similarly, in the Azores, an archipelago located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Blue Economy has been a driving force for economic growth and sustainability. The Azores have invested in sustainable fisheries, renewable energy, and marine biodiversity conservation, which have helped to create new jobs and economic opportunities in the region.
As every year, our flagship event, the Virtual Island Summit will gather speakers & attendees (policymakers, academics, NGO representatives, entrepreneurs, etc), from around the world, to share their expertise on topics pertinent to island communities.
In a few weeks, the Blue Economy and Sustainable Islands Forum will take place in Madeira. We will explore the potential of sustainable ocean-based industries to drive economic growth while preserving the health of our planet.