Countries like ours, with such vast marine wealth, should make use of the sea, the technologies offered in relation to it in the context of a sustainable economic development. This was the important conclusion drawn in the context of the Regional Growth Conference organized by Peloponnisos newspaper at the Conference and Cultural Center of the University of Patras.
“The development, protection and regeneration of marine ecosystems is a critical policy priority for Greece, which holds a leading position in tourism, shipping and other activities, which makes the Greek economy fully interdependent on the marine ecosystem,” he said. the president of the Economic Chamber B.D. of Peloponnese and Western Greece Giorgos Papas.
An example to be followed of good practices, friendly to the environment, is the Mayor of Astypalaia, Nikolaos Komineas, who participated in the meeting emphasizing the following: “The new model that will help to change the situation is for information to come to the local communities, which will they have the right to decide”.
The meeting was also attended by: o Professor of Regional Economic Analysis, Panteion University Ioannis Psycharis, o Professor of the University of Patras Giorgos Papatheodorou, Executive Director, Athanasios K. Laskaridis Foundation Angeliki Kosmopoulou, while the coordination was carried out by the Director, Data Consultants Theodora Tsokou.
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How can local communities effectively contribute to the management and preservation of marine ecosystems in Greece?
**Interview with Giorgos Papas, President of the Economic Chamber of Peloponnese and Western Greece**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Papas. At the recent Regional Growth Conference, you emphasized the importance of sustainable economic development rooted in our marine wealth. Can you elaborate on how Greece’s economy is interdependent with its marine ecosystem?
**Giorgos Papas:** Absolutely. Greece’s extensive coastline and rich marine resources are not just vital for tourism and shipping, but also for fishing and other coastal industries. Our economy cannot thrive without considering the health of these ecosystems. They are essential for our livelihoods and play a significant role in maintaining biodiversity.
**Interviewer:** You also mentioned the importance of local communities in decision-making. Mayor Nikolaos Komineas suggested that information should be directed to these local communities. How do you see this localized approach impacting sustainable practices?
**Giorgos Papas:** This shift towards involving local communities is crucial. They are the ones directly interacting with these ecosystems and are often the best stewards of their environments. Granting them the right to make informed decisions fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, which can lead to more sustainable practices that reflect the needs and challenges of each community.
**Interviewer:** With the ongoing discussions on climate change and its implications, especially for coastal regions, what kind of holistic policy approaches do you advocate for in addressing these challenges?
**Giorgos Papas:** We need integrated policies that link economic activities with environmental protection. This includes investing in green technologies and creating frameworks that encourage collaboration among various stakeholders—from government to private sector to local communities. It’s essential to address climate change not only as a challenge but as an opportunity for innovation and sustainable growth.
**Interviewer:** As we wrap up, how do you think the general public can engage in this dialogue about marine ecosystems and sustainable development? Should they have a say in policymaking?
**Giorgos Papas:** Absolutely, public engagement is vital. I encourage everyone to consider the impact of their daily choices on marine ecosystems and support initiatives that advocate for sustainable practices. Citizens should feel empowered to voice their opinions and contribute to discussions about policies that affect their local environments. It’s a collective effort that requires everyone’s involvement.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Papas. Your insights today highlight the intersection of economic growth and environmental responsibility.
Now, I’d like to pose a question to our readers: Do you believe that local communities should have a greater role in the decision-making processes regarding their marine resources? How can this influence sustainable development in our region? Let’s spark a debate!
