#Japan #Osaka #Marine Conservation #Osaka Expo #Blue Economy

BLUE ECONOMY WEEK: A Step Towards Sustainable Marine Futures

From June 2nd to June 8th, the BLUE ECONOMY WEEK will be held at the BLUE OCEAN DOME, part of the Osaka-Kansai Expo. Organized by the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, this event aims to engage in discussions and activities focused on achieving a peaceful world through the ocean. Notably, the event welcomes local government officials, experts, and attendees from various fields to participate in symposiums, talks, and presentations that highlight key issues surrounding marine conservation and sustainable economic practices.

What is Blue Economy?

The concept of Blue Economy emphasizes the importance of maintaining marine ecosystems while also utilizing ocean resources in a sustainable manner to promote economic development. This approach is gaining traction both in Japan and around the world, as growing concerns about the negative impacts of climate change, overfishing, pollution, particularly plastic waste, and rising ocean temperatures dominate global discussions.

One of the key focuses of the BLUE ECONOMY WEEK is on various symposiums such as "From UMIGYO to Japan’s Unique Blue Economy," "Marine Environmental Restoration and Ocean Visualization," and "The Disappearing Seaweed Forests and Local Conservation Efforts." These sessions will bring together experts and researchers from the Sasakawa Peace Foundation’s Marine Policy Research Institute, along with municipal representatives to explore collaborative efforts towards sustainable marine practices.

Significance of the Events

This week-long series of events serves not only as a platform for sharing knowledge and strategies related to ocean sustainability but also highlights the necessary balance between marine environmental conservation and economic growth. For instance, highlighting the importance of seaweed as both an ecological asset—by absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen—and a source of income through initiatives like the J Blue Credit system, which allows the trading of credits based on CO2 absorption, demonstrates how economic incentives can align with environmental goals.

Throughout the week, attendees will witness various presentations from leading experts in the field, including discussions on how aquaculture can remain sustainable and the role of UMIGYO, a multipurpose approach focusing on the community's fishery assets while incorporating recreational and educational aspects.

Among the various exciting events, attendees can look forward to a special chorus performance by Minako Tanaka, a singer and actress, as well as Palau’s goodwill ambassador, who will also engage in discussions about the future of our oceans, showcasing the cultural facet of marine conservation.

A Year of Maritime Awareness

This year has been marked as a "super year for the oceans" with major international conferences planned, such as the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, and the UN Climate Change Conference in Brazil. These events offer a global stage to emphasize ocean conservation efforts and the significance of sustainable maritime practices. The ongoing "Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development," initiated in 2021, fosters a collective goal to protect oceanic resources while enhancing awareness around sustainability.

The Sasakawa Peace Foundation, which operates the Marine Policy Research Institute, aims to promote peace through maritime initiatives, underlining the need for scientific bases in policymaking and international collaboration. Their active participation in BLUE ECONOMY WEEK at the Osaka-Kansai Expo embodies their commitment to fostering discussions that can lead to actionable outcomes for ocean preservation.

In conclusion, BLUE ECONOMY WEEK is more than just an event; it’s a call to action. It encourages us all to reflect on our relationship with the ocean, the impact of our actions on marine ecosystems, and our role in promoting a sustainable future not only for the sea but for society as a whole.

Event Schedule

• - June 2: Discussions on bridging science, policy, and society to protect marine environments.
• - June 3: Insights into Japan’s unique Blue Economy.
• - June 4: Exploration of the potential of aquaculture.
• - June 5: Marine environmental restoration techniques.
• - June 6: The importance of seaweed conservation.
• - June 7: Innovations from seaweed for sustainable futures.
• - June 8: Special performances and engaging discussions.

Conclusion

Take this opportunity to engage with experts, learn about the critical relationship between our oceans and economic development, and consider how you can contribute to fostering a more sustainable oceanic future.

For detailed information, visit: BLUE ECONOMY WEEK Official Site.