Securing a Just Space for Small-Scale Fisheries in the Blue Economy

Securing a Just Space for Small-Scale Fisheries in the Blue Economy

The largest group of ocean-users – women and men who service, fish and trade from small-scale fisheries (SSF) – argue that they have been marginalized from the dialogue between international environmental and economic actors that is determining strategies for the future of the ocean. Blue Economy or Blue Growth initiatives see the ocean as the new economic frontier and imply an alignment with social objectives and SSF concerns. Deeper analysis reveals fundamental differences in ideologies, priorities and approaches. We argue that SSF are being subtly and overtly squeezed for geographic, political and economic space by larger scale economic and environmental conservation interests, jeopardizing the substantial benefits SSF provide through the livelihoods of millions of women and men, for the food security of around four billion consumers globally, and in the developing world, as a key source of micro-nutrients and protein for over a billion low-income consumers.

VISIT

The American Blue Economy Podcast with Admiral Tim Gallaudet

The American Blue Economy Podcast

Tune into this American Shorelines Podcast Network and we promise you won’t regret it! Admiral Tim Gallaudet has a distinguished career as an oceanographer serving in the U.S. Navy and NOAA. Episodes are a bit challenging to find on the site, so patience is required to find all twelve.

• Episode 1: Introduction
• Episode 2: The Backbone of the Global Economy: The Marine Transportation System
• Episode 3: The Fun Stuff: Tourism and Recreation on the American Shoreline
• Episode 4: The Incredible Value of America’s Coral Reefs
• Episode 5: The Increasingly Important Role of Seafood, Wild Fisheries, and Aquaculture in a Changing World
• Episode 6: Life and Adventure of Bob Ballard
• Episode 7: Ocean Exploration, Mapping, and Characterization in the Blue Economy
• Episode 8: What Will Climate Change Mean for the Blue Economy?
• Episode 9: Coastal Resilience and the Blue Economy
• Episode 10: Year in Review: 2021 in the American Blue Economy
• Episode 11: The Central Role of STEM Education in the Blue Economy
• Episode 12: The Amazing Workforce Potential of the American Blue Economy

LISTEN

Protecting California’s Coast and Ocean

Protecting California’s Coast and Ocean

California Ocean Protection Council’s Strategic Plan (2020-2025) is a call to action. California is a global leader of ocean and coastal stewardship with legislation such as the Coastal Act, marine protected areas, and renowned scientific research programs that anchor our approach to safeguard natural resources.


NOAA Blue Economy Strategic Plan

NOAA Blue Economy Strategic Plan

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Blue Economy Strategic Plan for 2021-2025 offers a roadmap to advance blue economy initiatives.


Port of San Diego Blue Economy Incubator

Port of San Diego Blue Economy Incubator

In 2016, the Port of San Diego established the Aquaculture and Blue Technology Program, which serves as a launch pad for blue technology and sustainable aquaculture ventures. The program supports entrepreneurship and innovation by helping small businesses overcome barriers, such as providing physical space, key assets, funding, permitting and entitlement assistance, identifying key partnerships and strategic collaborations to scale pilot projects, and more. Check out all three editions of their Blue Economy Incubator Highlights publication and explore the incredible portfolio of nature based solutions and new businesses that are delivering multiple social, environmental and economic benefits.

The Program Manager, Paula Sylvia is a wealth of knowledge and experience. Ms. Sylvia was a keynote speaker at Fort Bragg’s Blue Economy Symposium and Leaning Festival in May 2022 and provides invaluable support and expertise as we work to further local efforts. Thank you, Paula!