Minister of the Sea: the key to Blue Economy national success?
In November of last year, I was fortunate to be able to attend a marine biotech conference in the beautiful coastal town of Cascais, Portugal. I found myself in the company of a group of very talented and entrepreneurial scientists and professionals. The conference was dedicated mainly to the arming andcommercialisation of seaweed, low trophic species and derived products. Quite fascinating. Some ground-breaking innovations, research and potential commercial collaborations around the world were discussed, providing an abundance of leads for future developments. The cross-cultural mix with attendees from North Canada, Alaska, Norway, Mexico, Australia and Europe made the event particularly rich in opportunities and fruitful in professional exchanges.
Being born in Europe, I had been to Portugal many years ago, and had forgotten the striking beauty of its coast. Charming fishing communities are still alive in locations of tourism. I must say I was most impressed by the state of the country and its dynamism in hosting worldwide focussed events and obviously having a dynamic maritime industry. More specifically, the blue economy and some industries based around the usage and protection of the sea. This impression rose to a highest point on the last day when our small group had the honour of welcoming the Minister of the Sea.
M. Ricardo Serrano Santos, a very well qualified gentleman to assure this function, gave the most inspiring speech, showing knowledge and respect for the sea and a strong drive for the sustainability of the ocean. He expressed his intent to have his country well positioned in the development of the Blue Economy. It made me reflect on the importance of defining the right leadership role and nominating the appropriate person in a country. How is it that in most countries there is no Minister of the Sea? The ocean is representing 71 percent of the Earth surface and play a major role in CO2 and heat absorbtion. The Blue economy is spaning over 14 different industries including shipping, fisheries, tourism, aquaculture. A quick google research showed that only a handful of countries have one. The Mozambique has one and France just nominated a lady in the role a couple of months ago. However, it does not seem very clear yet what will be included in the mandate.
To come back to Portugal, the ministry seems to have the potential to catalyse some activity around the ocean but also will be playing a positive role on the issues of climate change for the overall country. Because the causes and solutions are inter-linked, they need to be addressed collaboratively. It is envisaged that some policies defined for the ocean will have a direct impact on the health of the land and cities. As the ocean plays a major role in CO2 absorption and healthy marine ecosystem will ensure the continuous health of the fisheries and related factories and livelihood. Portugal is famous for its canned sardines for example and tourism represents a strong revenue source. Policies have been already announced for increased development of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and marine reforestation. Also, some clear statements were made by the Minister against deep sea mining, considered as non-essential and presenting a large risk for the health of the ocean. I could not agree more.
On the international scene, this small country, ranking 42nd in term of its economy, managed to have the IPCC meetingfarming organised on its ground at the start of the year, hosting a group of scientists, politicians and governmental organisations creating policies for Climate Change in the context of the Paris Agreement. A few countries including the United States. have indicated that they will not honour their commitment, taken during the summit. However, Europe and other countries are still pursuing the target of not exceeding the 1.5 degres.
Will this ensure the success of Portugal in the Blue Economy? The future will tell, but the country is doing its best to put all the chances on its side and the Minister of the Sea will play an important part. Will other other countries with large coasts and larger economies follow its example?