Posted on May, 17 2021

Today, the European Commission published a communication on a new approach for a sustainable blue economy in the EU. 

Alexandre Cornet, Ocean Policy Officer at the WWF European Policy Office said, “The European Commission has brought in the much needed, but up until now overall lacking, blue dimension to the European Green Deal. It is very promising to see language shifting from a paradigm of growth to one based on sustainability. In order to contribute to a truly sustainable blue economy and demonstrate commitment to this shift, the proposed “Blue Forum” must incorporate all pillars of sustainability: gathering all marine stakeholders means not only economic players, such as those from maritime sectors, but those who benefit from ecosystem services, like coastal communities, and those who bring a voice for nature, including civil society.”

WWF is supportive of the Commission’s sustainable blue economy agenda, including climate neutrality, biodiversity restoration and protection, sustainable seafood (including stronger fisheries control), and the sustainable use of our marine areas through ecosystem-based maritime spatial planning.

For more information: 

• WWF EPO’s guidance paper on ecosystem-based maritime spatial planning to support the sustainable development of blue economy activities
• WWF EPO publications on the value of Marine Protected Areas to EU climate action and sustainable ocean governance
• The Control Regulation Coalition reaction to the European Parliament plenary vote on the revision of the fisheries control system
• WWF EPO’s report on a ‘Wellbeing Economy’ approach - whereby an economy serves people and the environment, rather than just pursuing economic growth through narrowly defined indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP)