Communication on a new approach for a sustainable blue economy in the EU: Transforming the EU’s Blue Economy for a Sustainable Future

Summary:

Communication published by the European Commission on 17 May 2021, setting out a fresh approach for a sustainable blue economy in the European Union (EU).

Further information:

Blue economy comprises industries and sectors related to oceans, seas and coasts, whether they are based in the marine environment or on land. This Communication takes a systemic view that integrates ocean policy into the European Union's economic policy in the framework of the European Green Deal and the Recovery Plan for Europe.

The document sets out an agenda for the blue economy, aiming to:

• Achieve the objectives of climate neutrality and zero pollution;
• Switch to a circular economy and reduce pollution;
• Preserve biodiversity and invest in nature;
• Support climate adaptation and coastal resilience;
• Ensure sustainable food production;
• Improve management of space at sea.

This Communication replaces the 2012 Blue Growth Communication. It also supports the provisions of Directive 2014/89/EU on maritime spatial planning.

Official

European Commission: Sustainable blue economy https://ec.europa.eu/oceans-and-fisheries/ocean/blue-economy/sustainable-blue-economy_en

European Commission: Press Release, 17/05/2021: European Green Deal: Developing a sustainable blue economy in the European Union https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_2341

European Commission: Sustainable Blue Economy - Questions and Answers (17 May 2021) https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/qanda_21_2346

European Commission: Statement by Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius on a new approach for a sustainable blue economy in the EU (17 May 2021) https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/speech_21_2524

European Investment Bank: Press Release, 17/05/2021: The European Commission and EIB Group join forces to protect the oceans and boost investment in the sustainable blue economy https://www.eib.org/en/press/all/2021-161-the-european-commission-and-european-investment-bank-group-join-forces-to-protect-the-oceans-and-boost-investment-in-the-sustainable-blue-economy#

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News

EurActiv, 18/05/2021: EU urges coastal industries to ‘join forces’ on blue economy, climate change https://www.euractiv.com/section/energy-environment/news/eu-launches-blue-economy-plan-for-coastal-industries-to-join-forces-and-tackle-climate-change/

EUObserver, 18/05/2021: EU unveils roadmap to green maritime activities https://euobserver.com/climate/151869

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