Towards a Sustainable Blue Economy in the Mediterranean region – 2024 Edition

This is the 3rd edition of the UfM periodic publication on the status of the Sustainable Blue Economy in the Mediterranean, following the 2021 and 2017 versions.

The aim of this publication remains to provide an accurate depiction of the status of Blue Economy sectors in the Mediterranean region, focusing on key emerging trends and drivers for the sustainable development of BE sectors based on the most up-to-date quantitative and qualitative data available. For each of the sectors addressed, an overview of the main economic indicators is provided, paired with key environmental, technological and social considerations.

The main regional cooperation platforms, initiatives, and projects are highlighted. Recent developments in terms of policy frameworks and technical cooperation – and particularly the role of the Union for the Mediterranean – are also outlined.
In addition, the report provides an assessment of the future outlook (2025-2030), based on observed trends, drivers and challenges.

Lastly, the present edition of the report places a specific focus on employment opportunities: an overview of expected career pathways and skills needs is provided for each sector.

Following the priorities of the 2nd UfM Ministerial Declaration on Sustainable Blue Economy, the publication covers the following sectors: Maritime Transport & Ports, Marine renewable energies, Coastal and Maritime Tourism; Fisheries and Aquaculture; Interactions between marine litter and the blue economy; and Maritime safety and security.

To complement the analysis, opportunities offered by key BE enablers and tools are also assessed: Financing Sustainable Results; Maritime skills, careers and employment; Marine Research and Innovation; Governance of the sustainable blue economy; and Maritime Spatial Planning and Integrated Coastal Zone Management.

Publication coordinator and supervisor: Alessandra Sensi, Head of sector, Environment and Blue Economy, UfM; Adriana Salazar, Sustainable Blue Economy Expert, UfM.

Study Team (Ecorys):
Javier Fernández
Irene Alonso
Matteo Bocci
Celia Murcia
Thanos Smanis
Jan Wynarski

Date of publication: 31 October 2024