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.
#Blue #economy #Designing #holistic #policy #approach #tackling #climate #change
How can Greece balance economic development with environmental sustainability in its marine policies?
**Interview with Giorgos Papas, President of the Economic Chamber B.D. of Peloponnese and Western Greece**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Giorgos. At the Regional Growth Conference, you emphasized the importance of developing marine ecosystems for Greece’s economy. Can you elaborate on how this relates to sustainable economic development?
**Giorgos Papas:** Absolutely. Greece has immense marine resources which are vital for tourism, shipping, and fishing. Sustainable practices can not only protect these ecosystems but also enhance our economic framework. By utilizing advanced marine technologies, we can create a blueprint for sustainable development that benefits local communities while preserving our natural wealth.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the model presented by Mayor Nikolaos Komineas, which empowers local communities. How crucial is local decision-making in this context?
**Giorgos Papas:** It’s essential. Local communities understand their environment best. By giving them access to information and the power to make decisions, we enable them to take ownership of their marine resources. This leads to more effective and sustainable practices that reflect specific local needs and conditions.
**Interviewer:** With current climate challenges, how do you foresee the role of Greece’s marine policies evolving?
**Giorgos Papas:** Our policies must be proactive and holistic. Tackling climate change requires incorporating scientific research and local insights into our strategies. We need to collaborate across disciplines and regions to innovate solutions that protect our marine ecosystems while promoting economic growth.
**Interviewer:** That sounds promising. However, do you think there’s a risk that economic interests might overshadow environmental priorities in this approach?
**Giorgos Papas:** That’s a valid concern. The key is finding a balance where economic development complements environmental stewardship. Policymakers, businesses, and communities must be aligned in this vision. Open dialogue is essential, and I invite readers to consider: Can we prioritize both sustainable practices and economic growth, or will one inevitably compromise the other?
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Giorgos. This certainly opens the floor for an important debate on the future of Greece’s marine policies.
**Giorgos Papas:** Thank you for having me. I look forward to hearing what the readers think!
