Belize has a Blue Economy Ministry; where did it emerge from, and what is it about? Blue Economy is an emerging concept encouraging better stewardship of the sea/ocean or blue resources. This economy strategy was created by the Commonwealth, an association of 54 countries, of which Belize is a member. It is part of the idea behind the Commonwealth Blue Charter that highlights the close linkages between the sea, climate change, and the well-being of the people among the Commonwealth nations.
This charter is an agreement by all Commonwealth nations to actively cooperate to solve ocean/sea-related problems and meet commitments for sustainable marine areas' development. The Blue Charter within the Blue Economy spectrum is designed to help Commonwealth countries work together on a fair, inclusive, and sustainable approach, all intending to protect the sea and develop an economic sector. This project also aims to work through a set of Action Groups, with each devoted to a particular ocean issue. A total of 14 countries have stepped forward to participate and champion ten topics. These include:
- Commonwealth Clean Ocean Alliance
- Coral Reef Protection and Restoration
- Mangrove Ecosystems and Livelihoods
- Marine Protected Areas
- Ocean Acidification
- Ocean and Climate Change
- Ocean Observation
- Sustainable Aquaculture
- Sustainable Blue Economy
- Sustainable Coastal Fisheries
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