Blue Economy Conclave: 6 Bold Moves for a Sustainable Future

Blue Economy Conclave – ‘Blue Tides: Two Shores One Vision’

A two-day Blue Economy Conclave titled ‘Blue Tides: Two Shores One Vision’ will be held in Kerala on September 18-19, 2025.

• The conclave is being organized by the Kerala State Fisheries Department in collaboration with the Union Government of India and the European Union (EU).
• The aim is to develop Kerala as a sustainable and resilient blue economy model by leveraging European expertise and India’s strategic coastal advantages.

Key Points: Blue Economy Conclave

Event Details:

• Dates: September 18-19, 2025
• Venue: The Leela Kovalam, Kerala
• Theme: ‘Blue Tides – Two Shores One Vision’
• Organizers:

• Kerala Fisheries Department
• Union Government of India
• European Union (EU)

Participation:

• Representatives from 29 European countries were invited.
• 17 countries confirmed participation, including:
  • Finland, France, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Denmark, Bulgaria, Austria, Malta, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Romania, and Germany.
• EU Ambassador to India and Bhutan, Hervé Delphin, will attend the event.

Purpose of the Conclave:

• Facilitate knowledge sharing between India and European countries on blue economy strategies.
• Develop a roadmap for Kerala’s sustainable and resilient blue economy growth.
• Forge partnerships and collaborations in areas like:

• Marine resources management
• Sustainable fisheries
• Coastal tourism
• Renewable ocean energy
• Blue economy-related infrastructure.

About Blue Economy:

Definition:

• The Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean and marine resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs, while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.
• It balances economic development with environmental sustainability.

Significance of Blue Economy for India:

• India has a 7,500 km coastline and rich marine biodiversity.
• Provides livelihood to millions of coastal communities.
• Supports multiple sectors:

• Fisheries and aquaculture
• Coastal tourism
• Shipping and ports

• Renewable ocean energy (wave, tidal, offshore wind)
• Marine biotechnology

Benefits of a Strong Blue Economy:

• Boosts economic growth and exports.
• Enhances food security through sustainable fisheries.
• Generates employment opportunities in coastal regions.
• Protects marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
• Strengthens India’s maritime strategy under SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

Expected Outcomes of the Conclave:

Roadmap for Kerala:

• Develop Kerala into a model state for sustainable blue economy practices.
• Promote resilient infrastructure and eco-friendly marine industries.
• Enhance climate change adaptation measures in coastal areas.

India-EU Collaboration:

• Utilize the EU’s expertise in marine governance and innovation.
• Create joint projects in research, technology, and sustainable resource management.
• Establish long-term strategic partnerships for mutual benefits.

Challenges in Blue Economy Implementation:

• Overfishing and depletion of marine resources.
• Pollution of oceans and coastal waters.
• Climate change impacts such as sea-level rise and cyclones.
• Lack of integrated policies and coordination among stakeholders.
• Funding constraints for sustainable projects.

Way Forward:

• Strengthen policy frameworks for marine resource management.
• Increase investment in blue economy research and innovation.
• Foster community participation in sustainable fisheries and coastal tourism.
• Promote eco-friendly technologies and renewable ocean energy projects.
• Enhance international cooperation through events like this conclave.

Conclusion:

The upcoming ‘Blue Tides: Two Shores One Vision’ conclave marks a significant step in India-EU collaboration for developing a sustainable and resilient blue economy.
By creating a comprehensive roadmap for Kerala and leveraging global expertise, India can unlock the vast potential of its marine resources while ensuring environmental conservation and economic growth.