Harnessing the Blue Economy: Towards a Sustainable Ocean in ASEAN
April 12, 2022 @ 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
The coastal and marine environment in ASEAN is one of the richest in the world. The region is home to over one third of all coral reefs and mangroves and hosts the highest levels of biodiversity for fish and sea grass species. This ecological abundance coincides with rich mineral and energy resources and provides the foundation for economic development. Much of ASEAN’s population depends on healthy oceans for livelihoods, food security, health, and recreation. However, the impacts of climate change, marine pollution, unsustainable fishing, and rapid unsustainable coastal development are increasingly threatening these ecosystems, jeopardizing the region’s islands, and developing coastal economies.