Canada is committed to being a leader in the blue economy

"It is only by working together that we can build a prosperous and sustainable blue economy that leaves no one behind," said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

By Fabian Dawson
SeaWestNews

Canada has pledged tens of millions of dollars for sustainable growth that will build resilient coastal communities, underscoring its commitment to being a leader in the global blue economy.

"Building a sustainable ocean economy is a global challenge that we face together … Canada is committed to doing its part," said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a statement released at the end of the conference. the sustainable blue economy in Nairobi. Kenya.

More than 16,000 delegates from 184 countries, including several heads of state, attended the conference, jointly organized by Canada and Japan.

"The Blue Economy", defined by the World Bank as the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, livelihood enhancement and job creation while maintaining the health of the ocean ecosystem, is valued at $ 6 trillion.

"A blue economy is about harnessing the potential of our oceans, seas, lakes and rivers – resources that Canada has the privilege of possessing in abundance – to improve the lives of everyone, especially women, youth, women and children. indigenous people and people in developing countries, "Trudeau said.

"It means harnessing the latest innovations, scientific breakthroughs and best practices while creating prosperity and preserving our waters for future generations.

"It is only by working together that we can build a prosperous and sustainable blue economy that leaves no one behind," said Trudeau.

He announced funding for the World Economic Forum's Friends of the Pacific Action Group and the United Nations Special Envoy for the Ocean for the Sustainable Use and Conservation of Ocean and Marine Resources, in accordance with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

As part of Canada's $ 1.5-billion National Oceans Plan, the Trudeau Administration has made ocean protection and clean energy a top priority during its G7 presidency.

With a strong Canadian delegation of business representatives, scientists, entrepreneurs, national organizations and representatives of Aboriginal groups, led by the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard , Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada has brought values ​​of inclusion, sustainability and economic security. at the talks in Nairobi.

"The commitments made at the Sustainable Blue Economy Conference will serve as a catalyst for energizing global efforts to achieve meaningful and lasting progress in capturing the opportunities offered by our water resources," he said. declared.

Wilkinson announced Canada's immediate action in support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda for 2030, including:

Up to $ 9.5 million to advance the activities of the Decade of Marine Sciences;

Up to $ 1 million to the World Economic Forum's Friends for Action for the Sea and the Government of Canada's support to the United Nations Special Envoy for the Ocean;

The Minister also reiterated Canada's commitment to work with the global community to support coastal and resilient coastal communities by highlighting the following Canadian investments:

$ 10 million to the Pacific Initiative for Biodiversity, Climate Change and Resilience. Funding for this joint initiative with the European Union, France, New Zealand and Australia will support efforts in the Pacific region to adapt to climate change, protect biodiversity and improve the health of oceans and fisheries;

$ 20 million for capacity building and technical assistance in small island developing States. This includes the areas of public financial management, the financial sector's supervisory capacity and the promotion of inclusive growth.

"Canada believes it has assets in areas such as ocean science, waste infrastructure, clean fishing and aquaculture technologies, and capital investments. We are eager to work with everyone for the betterment of our environment and our economy, "Wilkinson said.

Quick facts

It is estimated that half of the world's population lives within 60 km of the sea and that three-quarters of the larger cities are located along the coast. (Source: United Nations Environment Program)

The blue economy industries represent the livelihoods of 660 to 820 million people worldwide, with women accounting for about 15% of those engaged in fishing. (Source: United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization)

In Canada, the oceans alone account for about 350,000 jobs and generate about $ 36 billion of GDP per year in the fisheries and aquaculture, energy, shipping, transportation and food sectors. tourism and recreation.

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Aquaculture at the center of the Blue Economy Summit