Protecting Namibia’s Thriving Blue Economy
About 71% of the earth’s surface is covered by water, and around 10% of the world’s population lives within five kilometres of the coast. Many of them depend directly or indirectly on the ocean for their livelihoods. As pressure on marine ecosystems increased, the blue economy emerged to promote the sustainable use of marine and […] The post Protecting Namibia’s Thriving Blue Economy appeared first on The Namibian .
About 71% of the earth’s surface is covered by water, and around 10% of the world’s population lives within five kilometres of the coast. Many of them depend directly or indirectly on the ocean for their livelihoods.
As pressure on marine ecosystems increased, the blue economy emerged to promote the sustainable use of marine and freshwater resources while supporting livelihoods, economic growth and healthy ecosystems.
In Namibia, where the ocean is vital for the economy and food security, the blue economy is implemented through an integrated management approach.
It promotes sustainable use of marine resources, supports local communities and aims to share economic benefits fairly while protecting ocean health.
Current ocean industries include fishing and aquaculture, mining, shipping, water desalination and tourism.
Future opportunities include renewable energy, marine biotechnology and carbon trading.
