1 research outputs found
Charting the course for a Blue Economy in Peru: A Research Agenda
Ocean- and coastal-based economic activities are increasingly recognised as key drivers for supporting global economies. This move towards the âblue economyâ is becoming globally widespread, with the recognition that if ocean-based activities are to be sustainable, they will need to move beyond solely extractive and exploitative endeavours, aligning more closely with marine conservation and effective marine spatial planning. In this paper we define the âblue economyâ as a âplatform for strategic, integrated and participatory coastal and ocean development and protection that incorporates a low carbon economy, the ecosystem approach and human well-being through advancing regional industries, services and activitiesâ. In Peru, while the seas contribute greatly to the national economy, the full potential of the blue economy has yet to be realised. This paper presents the findings of an early career scientist workshop in Lima, Peru, in March 2016. The workshop âAdvancing Green Growth in Peruâ brought together researchers to identify challenges and opportunities for green growth across three Peruvian economic sectorsâtourism, transport and the blue economy with this paper exploring in detail the priorities generated from the âblue economyâ stream. These priorities include themes such as marine spatial planning, detailed evaluations of existing maritime industries (e.g. guano collection and fisheries), development of an effective MPA network, support for sustainable coastal tourism, and better inclusion of social science disciplines in understanding societal and political support for a Peruvian blue economy. In addition, the paper discusses the research requirements associated with these priorities. While not a comprehensive list, these priorities provide a starting point for future dialogue on a co-ordinated scientific platform supporting the blue growth agenda in Peru, and in other regions working towards a successful âblue economyâ