CMS member Kelly Hoareau will be facilitating a Massive Open Online Course on The Blue Economy - Sustainability, Innovation, and our Ocean for 5 weeks from 29th October 2023.
Course details and enrolment: https://www.mooc4dev.org/blueeconomy1
Course Description:
Earth's defining feature is the ocean and it is the reason that life exists. It produces oxygen, absorbs carbon dioxide, and contributes to freshwater renewal. The ocean provides important goods and services to all of society, connecting countries and cultures while supporting ecosystems that cross national boundaries. It is a major part of the world economy, with more nations looking to the ocean to enhance livelihoods and wellbeing, particularly coastal communities and island nations. Some nations are looking at their large lakes and rivers to do the same.
The concept of the blue economy is a loosely defined development model that builds on that of the green economy and encompasses a range of activities and policy aspirations that vary globally. These aspirations are influenced by economic growth and socio-ecological sustainability priorities. Equitable, just, and sustainable blue economy frameworks will require innovative governance and practice across all levels of society. This course will explore the key components of the blue economy and link these to practical examples.
Kelly Hoareau has over 15 years' experience in environmental, sustainability and leadership roles, with first-hand experience of working in Africa and with various small island developing states and coastal nations, across marine and terrestrial ecosystems. She is the former and founding Director of the University of Seychelles’ James Michel Blue Economy Research Institute and a co-founder and management committee member of UniSey’s Island Biodiversity Conservation centre. She is currently working full time on her PhD which explores the role that knowledge systems play in supporting a more sustainable blue economy.
