Council Conclusions on a sustainable blue economy

The Council approved yesterday (26 May) conclusions on a sustainable blue economy, which is based on four pillars: healthy oceans, knowledge, prosperity and social equity. The conclusions underline the need for an efficient ocean governance built on a sustainable blue economy.

The Council highlights the sustainable use of oceans and seas, which plays an important role in the European Green Deal agenda. Member States support sound governance based on knowledge, awareness and insight of oceans and seas, as well as fair and equitable socioeconomic conditions, in line with the EU’s Strategic Agenda.

In this context, Next Generation EU and the new Multiannual Financial Framework, including the Recovery and Resilience Facility, already take into account the further need to develop blue economy sectors.

Through these conclusions, the Council aims to ensure that the European Union promotes a modern, resource-efficient, resilient, competitive and sustainable economy, where by 2050 biodiversity is conserved, restored and used sustainably, stressing the need for collaboration amongst all parties to contribute to the development of a prosperous blue economy.

Background

A sustainable blue economy is essential to achieving the objectives of the European Green Deal and ensuring a green and inclusive recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Council conclusions support in many aspects the Commission’s new approach for a sustainable blue economy in the EU.