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, 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 specific technologies can local communities adopt to promote sustainable fishing and marine tourism while protecting marine ecosystems?
**Interview with Giorgos Papas, President of the Economic Chamber B.D. of Peloponnese and Western Greece**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Mr. Papas. At the recent Regional Growth Conference, you emphasized the importance of sustainable economic development in connection with our marine resources. Can you elaborate on what specific strategies can be implemented to ensure both economic growth and marine ecosystem protection?
**Giorgos Papas:** Certainly! Our strategies should focus on integrating advanced technologies that promote sustainable fishing, marine tourism, and renewable energies derived from the sea. We must ensure that local communities are not only recipients of information but active participants in decision-making processes. This approach empowers them to manage their resources responsibly.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the role of local communities in your speech. How can local voices be effectively heard in the larger framework of national policy-making regarding marine and economic development?
**Giorgos Papas:** It’s crucial to establish a participatory framework where local ideas and practices inform national policies. This could involve local councils meeting regularly with policymakers, supported by data and research from institutions like the University of Patras and Panteion University.
**Interviewer:** Nikolaos Komineas highlighted the importance of information flow to communities. Do you believe community-driven initiatives can foster innovative approaches to marine ecosystem management?
**Giorgos Papas:** Absolutely! Communities often possess invaluable local knowledge that can lead to innovative, effective solutions tailored to their specific environments. Empowering them can create a sense of stewardship that enhances both their livelihood and the health of marine ecosystems.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, as we tackle the pressing issues of climate change, what role do you see for Greece in this global challenge, particularly concerning our marine resources?
**Giorgos Papas:** Greece can be a model for other nations in harnessing the blue economy to combat climate change. By prioritizing the protection of our marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices, we can not only safeguard our own economic future but also contribute to the global effort against climate change.
**Interviewer:** A thought-provoking perspective, Mr. Papas. As we conclude, we invite our readers to consider: Do you believe the integration of local communities into marine resource management is the key to sustainable economic growth, or do you think broader, top-down policies are more effective? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s spark a debate!
