Protecting the blue wealth

It is necessary to have a sustainable blue economy to guarantee a green future, and probably this is the right time to ‘talk for the blue’ to protect the ocean, which is facing multi-cornered threats due to human intervention.

Oceans, according to the Natural Resources Defence Council (NRDC), are damaged every day by oil and gas drilling, pollution and industrial impacts. “Human activities are changing the ocean’s chemistry, destroying habitats and killing marine life,” says the international environmental advocacy group, calling for a healthy marine life, and intervention of the stakeholders to make the oceans safe from plastic pollution, and ocean acidification.

June 27 is not too far when marine experts would gather in Lisbon and make a repetitive clarion call to correct the human behaviour to protect the oceans. The five-day extensive conference will raise yet another reminder aimed at saving the ocean and protect the future.

A recently concluded event in the Sultanate of Oman called for the safety of sharks. The national and international experts came out with valuable recommendations to protect the sea species, which means that the global concern is not only for shark, but also for all kinds of activities that harm the oceans and habitat of marine species in general. The event hosts were Oman’s Environment Authority and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (FAW).

Reiterating the country’s position on the issue, Suleiman bin Nasser al Akhzmi, Director-General of Nature Conservation, said: “The Sultanate of Oman has adopted many policies, plans and programmes to develop this sector and achieve sustainable development, in addition to implementing oversight operations that focus on implementing laws and legislation issued in this regard including monitoring fishing fleets, border crossings and companies.”

Such events are reminders for the human being, the best beneficiaries of nature’s resources, to stimulate sustainable habits based on innovative solutions of science, more environmentally friendly technologies, and the sustainable use of marine resources, protecting biodiversity and reducing pollution.

Oman’s history and culture are marked by a deep relationship with the sea, which has also determined its people’s open, available and innovative character. The oceans have also been a reason for establishing commercial and economic initiatives and defining strategic relationships with other nations.

Oman’s coastline is extensive. With over 1,700 km, the country’s coastline is punctuated by various natural conditions and an exceptional climate, which always provides unique and unforgettable experiences. Because of these assets, the country can emerge as one of the global destinations for ocean-related issues.

Not to forget that the ocean plays a critical role in protecting the health of our planet, providing oxygen and food, functioning as the main climate regulator, absorbing excess carbon emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change. The resilience of marine ecosystems must be preserved, so ocean-based climate action, supported by political will and investment in technology, will allow the oceans to remain the main instrument in the fight against climate change.