Many of the blue economy sectors have a strong potential to contribute to a sustainable future, in line with the European Green Deal. A few examples
- maritime renewable energy
- food from the sea
- sustainable coastal and maritime tourism
- blue bio-economy
However, the optimal development of all sea-related activities in a sustainable manner calls for a coherent policy framework based on proper involvement of all stakeholders. Seas are shared among different countries so regional cooperation, including with non-EU countries, is important.
Moreover, each sea basin is different. There are specific conditions, opportunities and challenges for each sea basin, which require a targeted approach. The European Commission recognises this
- it has developed 3 sea basin strategies: for the Atlantic, the Western Mediterranean and the Black Sea
- it is closely involved in two macro-regional strategies with a strong maritime character, in the Baltic sea and in the Adriatic and Ionian regions
- it supports the Outermost Regions in developing their own blue economy strategies
News
Today, the European Commission presented updates to its 2026 fishing opportunities proposal for the Mediterranean and Black Sea. The proposal promotes a balanced approach that recognises fishers' conservation efforts while ensuring the sustainability of vital fish stocks.
Coastal and marine ecosystems in the Black Sea are under growing pressure from global challenges, including pollution, climate change, and the environmental consequences of armed conflict.
Crete’s crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity have long attracted visitors, but diving tourism has remained underdeveloped. A pioneering EU-funded project has successfully launched Crete’s first dedicated diving park in Stalis,