On 26 June, the NovaSchool of Science and Technology | NOVA FCT hosted an unprecedented event, the first conference dedicated exclusively to the Blue Economy. Organised by FCT NOVA’s Executive Education, the conference brought together an elite group of experts, academics, industrialists and politicians to discuss the sustainable use of Portugal’s vast maritime resources. This meeting not only reaffirmed Portugal’s position as a nation intrinsically linked to the sea, but also outlined the immense potential that the ocean offers for future economic development, always aligned with environmental preservation.

Portugal and the Sea: A Historical Connection with Future Prospects

Portugal, a nation with a respectable maritime legacy, has its historical roots deeply intertwined with the ocean (Costa, 2017). The Portuguese Republic, founded in 1143, extends over a land area of 92,212 km², but it is in the maritime dimension that the country reveals itself to be a European colossus. Portugal’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) covers around 1,683,000 km², making it one of the largest in Europe (Sousa et al., 2018). This vast area, subdivided between the mainland and the Azores and Madeira archipelagos, totals approximately 50,957 km² and represents a territory full of opportunities and challenges for the blue economy (Bessa, 2014).

Dynamics of the Blue Economy: Development, Sustainability and Innovation

The conference explored in depth the potential of sectors such as fishing and aquaculture, maritime tourism, offshore renewable energies, marine biotechnology and port infrastructures. The critical importance of sustainability in these sectors was highlighted, as evidenced by Silva and Santos (2019), who argue about the need to harmonise economic growth with the conservation of marine ecosystems. Technological innovation was highlighted as a crucial vector for future development, particularly with regard to renewable energy and biotechnology, areas in which Portugal has the potential to become a global leader (Martins & Fernandes, 2020).

Economic Impact: Academia as a Model

Portugal’s commitment to the blue economy is not only a strategic choice, but also a vital necessity for the country’s subsistence and the preservation of its natural heritage. This initiative reflects a deep understanding that Portugal’s economic future is intrinsically linked to its maritime past and present.

The involvement of academia, in particular NOVA FCT, in fostering and leading discussions on the blue economy highlights a pragmatic and visionary approach, in line with international best practice. This commitment to sustainability and innovation is a brilliant example of the role that higher education can play in transforming a country’s economic foundations.

The economic impact of this sector is tangible and growing. The blue economy has the potential to significantly boost Portugal’s GDP, create jobs, foster innovation and ensure environmental sustainability. Sectors such as offshore renewable energy and coastal tourism not only diversify the Portuguese economy, but also place the country at the forefront of the global green economy.

The development of these sectors, supported by effective public policies and investment in research and development, can transform Portugal into a blue economy model, demonstrating that it is possible to combine economic growth with respect and care for the marine environment.

Policy and Strategy: Guidelines for a Sustainable Blue Future

The conference emphasised the importance of an integrated policy that not only promotes the blue economy, but also ensures environmental protection. International collaboration, especially in the management of transboundary resources and the fulfilment of international environmental guidelines, was highlighted as essential (Nobre, 2021). The role of policymakers in shaping a regulatory environment favourable to investment and innovation was also discussed, with recommendations for policies that encourage research and sustainability (Gomes & Lopes, 2022).

The Ocean as Heritage and Future

This first Blue Economy conference at NOVA FCT served not only to reiterate Portugal’s commitment to a sustainable future, but also to establish an academic and professional dialogue that will hopefully continue to influence policies and practices in the country and beyond. Portugal, with its unique maritime heritage and a present of limitless possibilities at sea, is perfectly placed to lead the way towards a future where the ocean is not only a source of resources, but also a carefully preserved asset for future generations.

This event was not just an academic and professional milestone; it was a reaffirmation of Portugal’s maritime identity and a proclamation of its untapped potential. Portugal’s future, undoubtedly linked to its maritime past and present, promises a journey of innovation, growth and sustainability, guided by the principles of the blue economy.

Referências
Bessa, J. (2014). Mar territorial e ZEE de Portugal. Lisboa: Observatório do Mar.
Costa, H. (2017). O legado marítimo de Portugal. Porto: Edições Marítimas.
Gomes, C., & Lopes, R. (2022). Políticas para a economia azul em Portugal. Coimbra: Universidade de Coimbra Press.
Martins, A., & Fernandes, E. (2020). Tecnologia e inovação na economia azul. Lisboa: TecnoMar Editora.
Nobre, A. (2021). Gestão sustentável dos recursos marinhos. Porto: Editora Oceano.
Silva, P., & Santos, M. (2019). Sustentabilidade e desenvolvimento marítimo. Lisboa: Fundação para o Desenvolvimento Marítimo.
Sousa, L. et al. (2018). Economia azul: Oportunidades e desafios. Porto: Universidade do Porto Press.

Orlando Fontan
Senior Project Management | Speaker | Managing Partner at ConceptChange | Professor | Change Management & Transformation Specialist | Information Security | Risk Management | ISO 27001 Certified