The Blue Economy has rapidly emerged as a transformative concept, balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability and societal well-being. It spans a variety of ocean-related sectors, including fisheries, aquaculture, marine energy, maritime transport, and coastal tourism. Beyond its potential to drive economic growth and create employment, the Blue Economy plays a critical role in preserving marine ecosystems that are vital for maintaining global ecological balance.

In recognition of these opportunities and challenges, the partners involved in the Unleashing Youth Power in Transnational Innovation for a Thriving Blue Economy – SEAQUEST (BSB00580) project have made significant strides in assessing and mapping the current state of the Blue Economy across the Black Sea Basin. The collaborative efforts were designed to align regional insights while fostering a network of sustainable practices for the Blue Economy.

A key component was the comprehensive baseline assessment and stakeholder mapping conducted in each partner country (Greece, Bulgaria, Turkiye). These assessments were not only critical for understanding the dynamics of the Blue Economy in each country, but they also provided invaluable insights into regional trends and challenges.

Key Findings from the Baseline Assessment

Each partner conducted an in-depth analysis of the Blue Economy in their respective countries, gathering data through industry reports, local policies, and economic studies. This baseline assessment revealed several common challenges that the Black Sea Basin faces across key sectors:

1. Environmental Degradation: Overfishing and pollution were found to be significant environmental threats to marine ecosystems.
2. Limited Technological Integration: Traditional industries, such as fisheries and aquaculture, often face challenges in adopting new technologies that could enhance efficiency and sustainability.
3. Regulatory Gaps: There is a need for stronger policy frameworks to align economic growth with environmental protection and social equity.

The collective findings across these individual assessments led to a broader understanding of the state of the Blue Economy, offering a foundation for strategic action within the region.

Stakeholder Mapping

Another key element of the SEAQUEST project was stakeholder mapping, a process that identified key actors and their roles within the Blue Economy in each partner country. By categorizing stakeholders such as youth organizations, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), public authorities, academic institutions, and industry associations, the project team could identify potential gaps in collaboration and areas where engagement could be strengthened.

The stakeholder mapping was crucial for understanding how various actors are connected and how their influence can be leveraged to support a thriving, sustainable Blue Economy. This process also identified opportunities for cross-sectoral collaboration, ensuring that the SEAQUEST project’s strategy was comprehensive and inclusive.

The collaborative work within the SEAQUEST project marks a significant step forward in realizing a sustainable Blue Economy across the Black Sea Basin. The baseline assessment and stakeholder mapping have provided essential data and insights that will inform future efforts to improve environmental practices, foster innovation, and encourage cross-sectoral collaboration. Moving forward, the collaborative strategies and regional action plans will play a pivotal role in tackling the challenges identified, ensuring the long-term health and vitality of the region’s marine resources.

The full material is available HERE.