Egypt has launched the Blue Economy Roadmap, a joint effort with CEDARE, UNEP, and the EU to promote sustainable marine practices and foster economic growth.
The Blue Economy Roadmap was launched during a ceremony in Cairo, a collaborative effort between the Centre for Environment and Development for the Arab Region and Europe (CEDARE), the United Nations Development Program (UNEP), and the European Union (EU), with the Ministry of Environment, under the leadership of Yasmine Fouad, also contributing to its development.
It’s also has been specifically customized to align with the strategic objectives and priorities of Egypt. It has been designed to serve as a guiding document for promoting sustainable coastal and marine practices, and thus lays down the foundation for fostering the blue economy. This concept aims to emphasize the sustainable utilization of ocean resources while ensuring the preservation of marine ecosystems.
The roadmap is in line with Egypt’s 2030 Sustainable Development Strategy and the objectives of the Ministry of Environment. It primarily focuses on effective management of natural resources, reducing pollution, and protecting the ecosystem. Additionally, it highlights Egypt’s dedication towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goals 12, 13, and 14. These goals aim to attain sustainable production and consumption, reduce the impact of climate change, and preserve marine life.
The roadmap was developed through a participatory approach involving government entities, academia, and civil society. It outlines four pathways to enhance sustainable practices and promote the blue economy. These pathways are aligning ecotourism with marine conservation and biodiversity protection, diversifying ecotourism offerings and improving existing infrastructure, utilizing ecotourism for climate resilience, empowering communities and preserving heritage through ecotourism.
Egypt’s extensive coastline, coupled with its unique natural resources and diverse ecosystems, present a significant opportunity for sustainable economic development in the marine sector.
The Blue Economy Roadmap aims to create sustainable job opportunities through eco-tourism, fishing, and recreational activities. This will benefit local communities and contribute to national prosperity.
The SwitchMed II project aims to accelerate the implementation of sustainable consumption, production, circular and blue economy.
