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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What role do local communities play in the stewardship of marine resources within the blue economy framework?
**Interview Segment: Regional Growth Conference Insights**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Giorgos. The Regional Growth Conference has emphasized the importance of sustainable economic development through marine resources. Can you elaborate on why this is such a critical focus for Greece?
**Giorgos Papas:** Absolutely. Greece’s economy is deeply intertwined with its marine ecosystems. We are leaders in tourism and shipping, industries that heavily depend on the health of our seas. Prioritizing the development, protection, and regeneration of these ecosystems ensures not just environmental sustainability, but also economic resilience.
**Interviewer:** That’s a compelling point. Nikolaos Komineas also highlighted the importance of local communities having a say in how these resources are managed. How essential do you think local input is in shaping a blue economy?
**Giorgos Papas:** Local input is vital. Communities are on the frontlines of managing these resources and have unique insights into sustainable practices. Empowering them to make decisions fosters responsibility and awareness, which can lead to innovative solutions that benefit both the economy and the environment.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of solutions, what are some examples of good practices that could be adopted across Greece?
**Giorgos Papas:** We can look towards sustainable fishing practices, marine conservation projects, and ecotourism initiatives that respect local ecosystems while promoting economic growth. Collaborative efforts between government, businesses, and communities can be effective in driving this change.
**Interviewer:** as we consider these strategies, how should readers engage with the idea of a blue economy? What can they do to contribute to this discussion?
**Giorgos Papas:** I encourage readers to think critically about the balance between economic development and environmental preservation. Advocate for sustainable practices within your communities and engage in discussions about local marine policies. Do you think local voices are being heard in the decision-making processes around marine resources? It’s crucial we create spaces for debate on this topic.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Giorgos, for your insights. This truly raises pressing questions about our collective role in fostering a sustainable future.
