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
What are the key benefits of involving local communities in marine resource management, according to Giorgos Papas?
**Interview with Giorgos Papas, President of the Economic Chamber B.D. of Peloponnese and Western Greece**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Papas. The recent Regional Growth Conference highlighted the importance of leveraging marine wealth for sustainable economic development in Greece. Can you elaborate on why this is crucial for our economy?
**Giorgos Papas:** Absolutely. Greece’s economy is deeply intertwined with its marine ecosystems. Our tourism and shipping sectors, along with fisheries, depend significantly on the health of these marine environments. By focusing on their development, protection, and regeneration, we not only sustain these vital industries but also enhance our overall economic resilience [[1](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/marine-economy-bolsters-american-prosperity)].
**Interviewer:** You mentioned local communities’ involvement in decision-making as a key aspect of this new sustainable model. Could you explain why this is important?
**Giorgos Papas:** Local communities are on the front lines of marine and coastal management. By empowering them with information and a voice in decisions, we can ensure that policies reflect local needs and conditions. This participatory approach fosters better stewardship of resources and encourages environmentally friendly practices at the grassroots level [[1](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/marine-economy-bolsters-american-prosperity)].
**Interviewer:** The Mayor of Astypalaia, Nikolaos Komineas, advocated for a new model focusing on community engagement. How can we implement such a model effectively in Greece?
**Giorgos Papas:** Implementation requires a multi-faceted approach. We need to enhance information flow and establish platforms that allow for community dialog. Additionally, local governments must have the authority and resources to make significant decisions regarding marine resource management. Education and awareness campaigns will also play a vital role in changing perceptions and encouraging sustainable practices [[1](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/marine-economy-bolsters-american-prosperity)].
**Interviewer:** As we consider these initiatives, what do you think are the biggest challenges Greece faces in balancing economic development and environmental protection?
**Giorgos Papas:** One major challenge is the pressure from tourism and industrial interests that can lead to overexploitation of marine resources. There’s also the risk of climate change exacerbating these issues. We need robust policies that integrate economic goals with environmental safeguarding to create a truly sustainable blue economy [[1](https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/marine-economy-bolsters-american-prosperity)].
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Papas. It’s clear that a sustainable approach requires collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders. Before we conclude, how can our readers contribute to this dialog about sustainable marine practices?
**Giorgos Papas:** I encourage readers to engage with local initiatives that focus on marine sustainability, participate in community discussions, and advocate for policies that prioritize our ocean’s health. It’s essential that every voice is heard in this collective effort to protect our marine wealth for future generations.
**Interviewer:** A compelling call to action! Thank you for sharing your insights today, Mr. Papas.
**Giorgos Papas:** Thank you for having me. It’s a vital conversation for our future.
**Debate Question for Readers:** How can we ensure that the balance between economic development and environmental protection is achieved in our coastal communities? What measures should be prioritized? Share your thoughts!