This project is a joint collaboration between IORAs Chair of Indian Ocean Studies and Human Science Research Council (HSRC), Pretoria, South Africa to fill the knowledge gaps and to understand the different dimensions of Blue Economy for which no universally accepted definition exists till today. The main objective of the book is to discuss and analyze the Blue Economy in theoretical as well as actionable and deliverable contexts by focusing on ocean governance, climate change employment generation, gender dimensions, sustainability and country-experiences.
The project is likely to be completed in October 2017. The Handbook on Blue Economy is the first systemic and comprehensive initiative to cover all the issues related with the Blue Economy in general and Indian Ocean region in particular. The book will serve as a reference book for all those who intends to understand the Blue Economy and will help the policy makers in understanding the basic contours of the Blue Economy so that the policies leading to facilitating investments; creating funding for natural capital, sustainable tourism, fisheries introducing Cluster Theory and employment generation in the youth by following blue career and blue labs may be generated in the IORs generation- leading to balanced and Sustainable Development of the region.
The project has established a network of scholars working together on the different aspects of blue economy in the region.
Chair in Indian Ocean Studies/IORA proposes at least 2-3 policy brief on Blue Economy at sub regional and country level by next year when this conference is held in June 2018.
Progress reports
By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution
By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans
Minimize and address the impacts of ocean acidification, including through enhanced scientific cooperation at all levels
By 2030, increase the economic benefits to Small Island developing States and least developed countries from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through sustainable management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism
Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology, taking into account the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Criteria and Guidelines on the Transfer of Marine Technology, in order to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries, in particular small island developing States and least developed countries
Enhance the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources by implementing international law as reflected in UNCLOS, which provides the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources, as recalled in paragraph 158 of The Future We Want
June 2018
