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.
#Blue #economy #Designing #holistic #policy #approach #tackling #climate #change
How can collaboration between government, private sectors, and local communities be structured to effectively protect marine ecosystems?
**Interview with Giorgos Papas and Nikolaos Komineas on Sustainable Marine Development**
**Interviewer:** Thank you both for joining us. Giorgos, you emphasized the importance of developing, protecting, and regenerating marine ecosystems for Greece’s economy at the Regional Growth Conference. Can you elaborate on how this integration can be achieved effectively?
**Giorgos Papas:** Certainly. The interdependence of our economy with marine ecosystems means we must prioritize sustainable practices. We need to invest in technologies that minimize environmental impact while maximizing economic benefits. This involves collaboration between the government, private sectors, and local communities to ensure that the approaches we take are environmentally friendly and economically viable.
**Interviewer:** Nikolaos, you mentioned the need for information to be shared with local communities to empower them in decision-making. How can this model truly influence marine sustainability in practice?
**Nikolaos Komineas:** It’s essential for local communities to have a voice in these decisions. By ensuring that they are informed and involved, we can support the creation of solutions that are tailored to their unique needs and environments. This grassroots approach can lead to innovative practices that not only protect marine ecosystems but also boost local economies, ultimately creating a more sustainable model for everyone.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like a promising way forward. However, some skeptics argue that local communities may not always have the expertise necessary to make such decisions effectively. How do you respond to those concerns?
**Giorgos Papas:** That’s a valid point. We must facilitate education and provide resources so that communities feel empowered and informed. The goal is to create a symbiotic relationship where technical experts and local knowledge come together for better decision-making.
**Nikolaos Komineas:** Exactly. It’s about fostering a culture of integration and learning. Local communities can provide insights based on their experiences, while experts can offer the technical guidance needed to implement effective solutions.
**Interviewer:** As we wrap up, what questions or concerns do you think readers should consider regarding the balance between economic growth and marine sustainability? Can we truly achieve both, or will one inevitably compromise the other?
