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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What are the key strategies that can be implemented to ensure sustainable fishing practices within the Blue Economy framework discussed by Giorgos Papas?
**Interview with Giorgos Papas, President of the Economic Chamber B.D. of Peloponnese and Western Greece**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Giorgos. You highlighted the importance of developing marine ecosystems as a policy priority for Greece. Can you elaborate on how balancing economic growth with marine ecosystem protection can be achieved effectively in the context of the Blue Economy?
**Giorgos Papas:** Absolutely. Our marine resources are invaluable, not just for their economic potential but also for ecological sustainability. The key lies in implementing advanced technologies that promote sustainable practices, ensuring that our activities do not compromise the health of marine ecosystems. For instance, we must focus on renewable energy, sustainable fishing, and responsible tourism.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned in your speech the role of local communities in decision-making. How do you envision empowering these communities to take charge of marine resource management?
**Giorgos Papas:** It’s crucial for information and resources to flow down to local levels. Communities are the frontline stewards of their environments. By involving them in decision-making processes, we can harness local knowledge and priorities, which leads to more effective and personalized solutions that align with sustainable practices.
**Interviewer:** The Mayor of Astypalaia, Nikolaos Komineas, talked about a new model for this change. What are some examples of actions or policies that could exemplify this new approach at the local level?
**Giorgos Papas:** Initiatives may include community-led marine conservation programs, educational campaigns to raise awareness about sustainable practices, and frameworks that allow local fishermen and businesses to collaborate in responsibly managing resources. One potential model is the “Marine Protected Areas” where communities have a vested interest in maintaining health while also benefiting economically.
**Interviewer:** as we consider this holistic approach to the Blue Economy, how can we engage broader public debate on these transformative ideas in our society?
**Giorgos Papas:** I believe initiating discussions through social media, public forums, and educational institutions can spark interest. I encourage your readers: How do you think empowering local communities in marine management can alter the economic landscape in Greece? What challenges or benefits do you foresee? It’s important that we engage everyone in this critical conversation about our shared future.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Giorgos, for sharing your insights. This topic indeed deserves more public engagement and debate.