(19 April 2017) – Today the European Commission launches a new initiative for the sustainable development of the blue economy in the Western Mediterranean region.
This initiative will allow EU and neighbouring countries to work together to increase maritime safety and security, promote sustainable blue growth and jobs, and preserve ecosystems and biodiversity.
By fostering cooperation between the ten countries concerned, this initiative has three main goals:
1. A safer and more secure maritime space – priorities include cooperation between national coast guards and the response to accidents and oil spills. Specific actions will focus on the upgrade of traffic monitoring infrastructure, data sharing and capacity building.
2. A smart and resilient blue economy – priorities include new data sourcing, biotechnology and coastal tourism.
3. Better governance of the sea – priority is given to spatial planning, marine knowledge, habitat conservation and sustainable fisheries.