13 September 2012: The European Commission adopted a communication on economic growth prospects in the maritime economy, including in emerging sectors such as renewable energy or “blue energy,” marine mineral resources, and more traditional sectors such as aquaculture and tourism.

The communication raises the profile of the blue economy in EU Member States and identifies ways in which EU policies provide a foundation for the blue economy. On the adoption of the communication EU Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and fisheries, Maria Damanaki underscored ensuring “the most productive and sustainable use of what our seas and coasts offer.”

The communication places the blue economy as a central element of the EU Integrated Maritime Policy’s role in implementing the Europe 2020 strategy for sustainable and inclusive growth. [EU Press Release]