The ocean is full of mysteries, including untapped natural resources that hold incredible potential. It is both our responsibility and opportunity to harness these resources in ways that benefit us while ensuring their sustainability for future generations. The World Bank defines the blue economy as using marine resources responsibly to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve livelihoods—all while protecting the health of marine ecosystems. Blue economic development can take many forms, such as sustainable fishing, coastal tourism, water-based transportation, and harnessing energy from the ocean (UNDP).
The blue economy plays a huge role in our world today, generating over $1.5 trillion every year and providing jobs for more than 30 million people. It is also a crucial source of protein for over three billion people, helping to sustain communities globally. But the blue economy is not just about money—it is also about protecting our oceans and using marine resources responsibly, which ties into Sustainable Development Goal 14, Life Below Water (UN SDGs). With all these benefits, no wonder more countries are focusing on it. In fact, the OECD predicts that by 2030, the value of the ocean economy could double to $3 trillion (LSE).
The High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy estimates that the blue economy could help cut greenhouse gas emissions by 21%—a crucial step toward meeting the Paris Agreement goal of keeping global warming under 1.5°C by 2050. This makes the blue economy an important solution to the climate crisis, addressing concerns shared by many countries. Beyond that, it ensures the ocean continues to benefit not just us today, but also future generations.
AIS Forum is present to tackle shared challenges many countries face, like limited access to technology and a lack of strong connections and collaboration with others to grow their blue economies. Through initiatives like the Blue Hub Program and the AIS Research and Development Center, the forum focuses on developing technologies to support countries in making the most of their blue economy opportunities. It also plays a vital role in helping to share existing technologies with countries that currently lack access, ensuring no one is left behind in these efforts.
