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, Public Benefit Foundation Athanasios K. Laskaridis Angeliki Kosmopoulou while the coordination was done by the Director, Data Consultants Theodora Tsokou.
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How can Greece effectively integrate the principles of the blue economy into its sustainable development strategies for marine resource management?
**Interview with Giorgos Papas, President of the Economic Chamber B.D. of Peloponnese and Western Greece**
**Interviewer:** Giorgos, thank you for joining us today. At the recent Regional Growth Conference, you highlighted the importance of sustainable development for countries with vast marine resources like Greece. Can you elaborate on that?
**Giorgos Papas:** Absolutely. The idea is that our economy is deeply interwoven with our marine ecosystems, which support tourism, shipping, and fishing. Protecting and regenerating these ecosystems isn’t just an environmental concern; it’s a critical aspect of our economic strategy. Sustainable development means using our marine resources wisely so that future generations can also thrive.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned critical policy priorities during your speech. What specific actions do you believe need to be taken to achieve these priorities?
**Giorgos Papas:** We need to implement comprehensive policies that address issues like climate change and biodiversity loss. This involves greater investment in research and technology to improve fishing practices and habitat restoration while ensuring local communities are involved in decision-making.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of local involvement, Mayor Nikolaos Komineas of Astypalaia suggested that communities should be empowered to make decisions affecting their environment. How crucial is this local input in environmental policies?
**Giorgos Papas:** Very crucial. Local communities are often the most affected by environmental policies. By giving them the right to participate, we not only empower them but also enhance the practical relevance and effectiveness of the policies. They know their ecosystems best and can provide invaluable insights.
**Interviewer:** The concept of the blue economy is increasingly discussed on global platforms. How can Greece leverage its marine wealth within this framework?
**Giorgos Papas:** Greece has a unique opportunity. By adopting a blue economy model, we can balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. This includes promoting eco-tourism, sustainable fishing, and marine innovations. It’s about creating economic incentives for conservation rather than destruction.
**Interviewer:** It’s clear that implementing such strategies requires a holistic approach. In your opinion, what challenges do you foresee in this transition, and how can we overcome them?
**Giorgos Papas:** Some challenges include limited funding, the need for extensive public awareness campaigns, and resistance to change from traditional industries. However, by creating partnerships between government, academia, and the private sector, we can develop innovative solutions and ensure everyone understands the long-term benefits of sustainability.
**Interviewer:** what message would you like to leave our readers with regarding the future of Greece’s marine economy?
**Giorgos Papas:** I encourage everyone to think about the role we all play in protecting our marine environments. Sustainable development isn’t just the responsibility of the government; it’s a collective effort. I’d love to hear our readers’ thoughts: Are you ready to be a part of this transition toward a sustainable blue economy, and what steps do you think are necessary to facilitate it?
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Giorgos, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue.
### **Discussion Question for Readers:**
What do you think are the most vital steps Greece should take to ensure a sustainable blue economy, and how can local communities be better empowered in this process? Share your views and let’s spark a debate!