Ocean/Maritime Clusters: Leadership and Collaboration for Ocean Sustainable Development and Implementing the Sustainable Development Goals

The World Ocean Council (WOC) and Economic Transformations Group (ETG) are pleased to announce the release of a white paper on “OCEAN / MARITIME CLUSTERS: Leadership and Collaboration for Ocean Sustainable Development and Implementing the Sustainable Development Goals”.

The paper highlights the need and opportunity to develop Ocean/Maritime Clusters as a key part of achieving ocean sustainable development, implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advancing the “Blue Economy” and “Blue Growth”. By combining purpose in innovation, competitiveness, productivity, profit and environmental benefits, Ocean/Maritime Clusters can lead ocean sustainable development and realize economic benefits.

Research and analysis of eleven Ocean/Maritime Clusters by ETG indicates that the way forward is to focus on business growth and investment opportunities for responsible, sustainable ocean use which considers the intersection of ocean economic benefits, environmental health and societal value in policies and best practices.

Key recommendations for organizations working to advance the role of the business leadership and collaboration in ocean sustainable development:
• Enhance and expand the role of ocean/maritime clusters in implementing sustainable development
• Accelerate the networking of ocean/maritime clusters for collaborative learning and action in support of sustainable development
• Support the development of ocean/maritime clusters for developing countries and small island developing states

Click here to read the complete White Paper.