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.
#Blue #economy #Designing #holistic #policy #approach #tackling #climate #change
What specific strategies can local communities implement to enhance their involvement in managing marine resources sustainably?
**Interview with Giorgos Papas, President of the Economic Chamber of Peloponnese and Western Greece**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Giorgos. In light of the recent discussions at the Regional Growth Conference, can you elaborate on how Greece can leverage its vast marine economy for sustainable development?
**Giorgos Papas:** Absolutely. Our marine resources are not just vital for economic development; they’re essential for tourism and our shipping industries. We need to focus on protecting marine ecosystems while utilizing technologies that promote sustainable practices.
**Editor:** You mentioned the importance of local communities in this process. How do you envision their role in decision-making regarding marine resource management?
**Giorgos Papas:** Local communities should be empowered to make informed decisions based on data and expert guidance. The more involved they are, the better equipped they will be to protect their marine environments while benefiting economically from them.
**Editor:** That’s an interesting approach. Nikolaos Komineas highlighted the shift in information flow to local communities. What challenges do you foresee in implementing this model?
**Giorgos Papas:** There will be resistance to change, as many are accustomed to top-down decision-making. Education and widespread awareness will be crucial to overcoming skepticism and ensuring stakeholders understand the benefits of a community-focused approach.
**Editor:** As we consider this holistic policy approach, how can we engage the public in discussions about marine economic development and environmental protection?
**Giorgos Papas:** Encouraging open debates in forums, social media platforms, and community gatherings is key. It’s important to hear diverse opinions, as this will foster a deeper understanding and more innovative solutions.
**Editor:** That leads to an intriguing question for our readers: How do you think the balance can be struck between economic development and environmental sustainability in your own community? What roles do you believe local stakeholders should play in this effort? Join the conversation!