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 the 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 be effectively empowered to contribute to sustainable practices in marine resource management?
**Interview with Giorgos Papas, President of the Economic Chamber B.D. 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 integrating marine wealth into sustainable economic development. Can you elaborate on how Greece can leverage its marine ecosystems for economic growth while ensuring their protection?
**Giorgos Papas:** Certainly! Greece has an abundance of marine resources, and our economic sectors, like tourism and shipping, are inherently linked to the health of our seas. It’s imperative that we adopt technologies and strategies that protect these ecosystems while also tapping into their potential. We must align our economic activities with sustainability to ensure long-term benefits for both the economy and our environment.
**Interviewer:** That’s a crucial point. Mayor Nikolaos Komineas suggests that local communities should play a decisive role in this transformation. How can this local empowerment translate into practical actions that benefit marine ecosystems?
**Giorgos Papas:** Local communities are the stewards of our marine environments. Their involvement ensures that decisions reflect both ecological and socio-economic needs. Providing them with the right information empowers them to make informed decisions that foster sustainable practices, whether it’s through tourism, fishing, or other economic activities that respect our natural resources.
**Interviewer:** With the scientific community’s input from experts like Ioannis Psycharis and Giorgos Papatheodorou, what are some of the key strategies you believe they proposed for a holistic policy approach to marine ecosystem management?
**Giorgos Papas:** Their contributions focused on the need for integrated coastal zone management, promoting research in sustainable fishing practices, and enhancing public awareness about the importance of marine conservation. These strategies must align with broader climate change initiatives to create a resilient economy.
**Interviewer:** It’s clear that the topic is multifaceted. However, considering the varied interests in marine economies, do you believe there will be significant resistance to implementing these sustainable practices from certain sectors?
**Giorgos Papas:** Resistance is always a possibility, particularly where economic interests clash with environmental regulations. The challenge is to find common ground where ecological health and economic vitality coexist. Engaging all stakeholders—including businesses, local governments, and communities—can mitigate opposing views and foster a sense of shared responsibility toward sustainability.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Papas. what do you think our readers should reflect on? Are there actionable steps they can take to contribute to this cause at a local level?
**Giorgos Papas:** I encourage readers to consider their impact on marine ecosystems and to advocate for sustainable practices in their communities. Whether it’s participating in local clean-up initiatives or supporting eco-friendly tourism, every action counts. Let’s initiate a dialogue: How can we balance economic growth with environmental stewardship in our own lives? I invite everyone to share their thoughts and solutions!