Motion 030

The motion could include this definition: "The regenerative blue economy is an economic model that combines both the rigorous and effective regeneration and protection of the Ocean and marine and coastal ecosystems, with sustainable economic activities related to the sea and decarbonized, and equitable prosperity at the service of people and the planet, today and tomorrow." (Le Gouvello&Simard, 2024). The motion builds on the founding work of WWF, UN agencies, the OECD, the Ocean Panel and the World Bank defining, proposing principles for sustainable blue economy, and criteria excluding certain human activities.
The regenerative blue economy promotes the protection and restoration of marine and coastal ecosystems as a top priority. It advocates the adoption of a new economic model based on inclusion, equity, and responsible financing practices. Governance must be inclusive and transparent, supported by sound science to guide decisions. Decarbonizing maritime activities and promoting a circular economy are key to minimizing the carbon footprint and maximizing the sustainable use of resources. Finally, the regenerative blue economy places particular importance on island states and indigenous peoples, recognizing their rights and traditions in the management of marine resources, and offering them a central role in decision-making processes.
To put these principles into practice, a series of practical recommendations are needed:
· Promote public-private partnerships for the development of sustainable technologies in the ocean-related sectors.
· Invest in scientific research and the development of innovative nature-based solutions for the management and restoration of marine ecosystems.
· Strengthen local and national capacities for integrated coastal zone management, including training and technical support to local communities.
· Integrate sustainability criteria and performance indicators into public policies and blue economic development strategies.
The regenerative blue economy represents a crucial opportunity to promote sustainable and resilient economic growth while protecting marine resources that are essential to life on earth. Its adoption requires collective commitment and international cooperation in order to transform current challenges into opportunities for sustainable progress for future generations. It should be tailored to the specific needs, challenges, and opportunities of different regions. It should also support and align with existing global initiatives, part of a broader, interconnected strategy for global sustainability. The importance of science, education and capacity-building in both the private sector and local communities as one way to advance towards the regenerative blue economy must be strongly emphasized.
References:
Le Gouvello, R., & Simard, F. (2024). https://portals.iucn.org/library/node/51442
OECD. (2020). https://doi.org/10.1787/bede6513-en
Stuchtey, M., A. Vincent, & A. Merkl, M. B. et al. (2020). https://www.oceanpanel.org/ocean-action/files/full-report-ocean-solutions-eng.pdf
UNEP-FI. (2018). https://www.unepfi.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Sustainable-Blue-Economy-Brochure.pdf
UNEP-FI. (2021). https://www.unepfi.org/publications/turning-the-tide/
WorldBank, & UnitedNations. (2017). https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/bitstream/handle/10986/26843/115545.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y
WWF. (2015). https://wwfint.awsassets.panda.org/downloads/15_1471_blue_economy_6_pages_final.pdf