Rethinking the Oceans: Towards Blue Economy

Fortunately, when faced with a challenge of such consequence, people prove to be remarkably inventive. In this case, solutions are by no means beyond reach. We can start, quite simply, by looking out to sea. There, stretching to the horizon, lies the future. Remarkably, the oceans cover two and a half times the extent of terra firma. We have always taken far less interest in the sea than the land. But what if we change our thinking? Instead of continuing to see the land as our future, suppose we put our trust in the sea. For solutions to some of the earth's most pressing problems, the oceans may be our salvation, the source of untapped economic wealth. Within these waters can be found the elements of what is now widely known as the Blue Economy, the new frontier for human development. It is a 21st-century concept to meet a 21st-century challenge. This book explores all aspects of the Blue Economy. Where does the idea come from? What does it include? How can it transform traditional economies? Can it be sustainable? And what needs to be done to ensure its universal adoption? James Alix Michel, former president of the Republic of Seychelles, is ideally placed to write this book. He has in recent years pioneered the concept, first within his nation and then in international gatherings, urging world leaders to take a fresh view of our oceans.