GREENSAVERS
Nov 19, 2024
Lisbon was recently the epicenter of global discussions about the future of the oceans with the first edition of the Ocean Summit 2024 – A Vision for the World.
Lisbon was recently the epicenter of global discussions about the future of the oceans with the first edition of the Ocean Summit 2024 – A Vision for the World. Paulo Veiga, President of the Carlos Albertino Veiga Foundation and former Minister of the Sea of Cape Verde, explained to Green Savers the importance of this international meeting and the impact it can have on promoting innovative solutions for ocean preservation and the development of the blue economy.
According to the official, the Ocean Summit “can help accelerate ocean mapping by uniting efforts, facilitating international partnerships for mapping projects; boosting technology by presenting and discussing new mapping technologies; attracting private and public investment by directing resources towards oceanographic research; and raising awareness by emphasizing the importance of mapping for conservation and sustainable development.”
Paulo Veiga laments that both Portugal and Cape Verde have not yet fully exploited the potential of their vast maritime territories. “Despite being historically linked to the sea, we still find ourselves, to some extent, with our backs turned to the immense wealth that represents more than 70% of our planet. The fact that only 5 to 7% of the ocean has been studied worldwide is symptomatic of this detachment and lack of investment in the exploration and knowledge of the sea,” he emphasizes.
In any case, he views these first few days after the Ocean Summit with "enormous enthusiasm." "The results of the meetings held alongside the debates, the enthusiasm of the participants, the projects presented, and above all, the visibility, have allowed us to initiate a paradigm shift and a change in mindsets that facilitates societies' return to the ocean," he points out.
What is the importance of the first edition of Ocean Summit 2024 – A Vision for the World?
The first edition of the Ocean Summit 2024 – A Vision for the World, organized by the Carlos Albertino Veiga Foundation, takes on even greater importance as it is situated within the context of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030), proclaimed by UNESCO. The event directly contributes to the Decade's objectives and reinforces the global commitment to ocean health.
Thus, we are aligned with the UNESCO Decade of Science and Knowledge, Solutions to the Challenges of the Decade, Collaboration and Cooperation. The Summit promotes the generation and sharing of scientific knowledge about the oceans. The event's debates and panels directly address challenges such as biodiversity loss, marine pollution, and the impacts of climate change, seeking innovative and effective solutions, and encourage collaboration between scientists, governments, the private sector, and civil society, in accordance with the pillars of the UNESCO Decade.
For Cape Verde, we believe that this event places us at the center of the global debate on the oceans, reinforcing our position as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) committed to sustainability and the blue economy. It promotes the exchange of knowledge and the training of Cape Verdean professionals in the areas of ocean science and technology, with international experts and leaders. It attracts investment for conservation and sustainable development projects in Cape Verde, boosting the blue economy.
Regarding Portugal, it consolidates its position as a leader in marine conservation and the promotion of the blue economy by hosting a high-level international event on the subject with figures such as the aquanaut Fabien Cousteau. We also strengthen the ties of cooperation between Portugal and Cape Verde, especially in areas such as marine science and technology, the blue economy, and environmental protection.
In summary, we believe that the first edition of the Ocean Summit 2024 – A Vision for the World in Lisbon represents a valuable contribution to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, with specific benefits for Cape Verde and Portugal, in addition to the global impact in the search for solutions to the challenges faced by the oceans.
The presence of personalities such as Fabien Cousteau , renowned ocean explorer and advocate for marine conservation; Admiral Gouveia e Melo , Chief of Staff of the Portuguese Navy; Dr. Jorge Santos , Minister of the Sea of Cape Verde; Dr. Carlos Carreiras , Mayor of Cascais; Dom Afonso de Bragança, Prince of Beira and Duke of Barcelos ; Dr. Julia Monar, Ambassador of Germany to Portugal and Cape Verde; Professor Emanuel Gonçalves, Scientific Coordinator and Administrator of the Oceano Azul Foundation; Dr. José Guerreiro, President of IPMA; and Dr. Giliardo Nascimento, Professor specializing in maritime law, among others, demonstrates the high level of engagement and strategic importance of the event. The active participation of government leaders, scientists, businesspeople, and representatives of civil society creates an environment conducive to dialogue, the exchange of experiences, and the development of innovative solutions for the protection of our ocean.
-What impact can this have on promoting innovative solutions for ocean preservation and the development of the blue economy?
The Ocean Summit 2024 aims to have a significant impact on promoting innovative solutions for ocean preservation and the development of the blue economy by:
Bringing together leaders and experts: Facilitating dialogue and collaboration between different sectors.
Encouraging innovation: Promoting the exchange of ideas and the presentation of new technologies and approaches.
Raising awareness: Highlighting the challenges and opportunities related to the oceans.
Boosting investment: Attracting resources for conservation and sustainable development projects.
Strengthening policies: Influencing the creation and implementation of effective public policies.
In summary, the event has the potential to catalyze actions and innovations for a more sustainable future for the oceans.
What is your view on the crucial role of the oceans for planetary sustainability?
The ocean is the blue heart of our planet, essential for life and sustainability. It regulates the climate, provides food and resources, and harbors immense biodiversity. Protecting the ocean is crucial to ensuring a healthy future for the planet and for the survival of humanity.
Over 80% of the oceans have not yet been mapped or explored. What role can this meeting play in advancing this mapping?
The Ocean Summit can help accelerate ocean mapping by uniting efforts, facilitating international partnerships for mapping projects; boosting technology by presenting and discussing new mapping technologies; attracting private and public investment by directing resources to oceanographic research; and raising awareness by emphasizing the importance of mapping for conservation and sustainable development.
Why Lisbon, and what positioning does this event give to the capital?
Lisbon, with its rich maritime history, strategic location, and commitment to sustainability, is the ideal setting for the Ocean Summit 2024. The event reinforces the city's position as a benchmark in marine conservation, a hub of innovation in the blue economy, and a sustainable tourism destination. Additionally, it helps to internationalize the foundation's work.
Portugal is undeniably a country with a strong connection to the sea. However, the sea's contribution to the national economy is still small (only about 5% of GDP and 4% of the country's employment). Why?
It is true that, unfortunately, both Portugal and Cape Verde have not yet fully exploited the potential of their vast maritime territories. Despite being historically linked to the sea, we still find ourselves, to some extent, with our backs turned to the immense wealth that represents more than 70% of our planet. The fact that only 5 to 7% of the ocean has been studied worldwide is symptomatic of this detachment and lack of investment in the exploration and knowledge of the sea.
However, events like the Ocean Summit 2024 emerge as an opportunity to reverse this trend and raise awareness of the ocean's importance. By bringing together experts, leaders, and civil society, the Ocean Summit promotes dialogue, collaboration, and awareness.
I believe that the Ocean Summit 2024, organized by a Cape Verdean Foundation, is another step towards Portugal and Cape Verde turning their attention to the sea, recognizing it as a source of wealth, innovation, and sustainable development for future generations. It is time for us to understand and protect our ocean, so that it continues to be a vital resource for our planet.
How can we better leverage the enormous potential that the Blue Economy could represent for the country's future?
For Portugal and Cape Verde to fully leverage the enormous potential of the Blue Economy, it is crucial to adopt a cross-cutting approach that encompasses:
Knowledge and Innovation:
– Invest in scientific and technological research, deepening knowledge about the Atlantic Ocean, including mapping still unexplored areas, and developing innovative technologies for the sustainable exploitation of marine resources.
Ocean Education and Literacy:
– To awaken interest in and passion for the sea in Portuguese and Cape Verdean societies, especially among young people, through educational programs and scientific outreach.
– To train highly qualified professionals in the various areas of the Blue Economy, from marine biotechnology to naval engineering and sustainable tourism.
Strategic Partnerships:
– To foster collaboration between the public sector, the private sector, and the scientific community, creating synergies and promoting knowledge transfer for the development of innovative and sustainable projects.
Sustainability as a Pillar:
– To ensure that the exploitation of marine resources is carried out responsibly, with respect for the environment and preservation of biodiversity, so that future generations can also benefit from the richness of the oceans.
By integrating these pillars, Portugal and Cape Verde can build a thriving Blue Economy, generating wealth and employment, while contributing to the health and sustainability of the oceans.
-In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly defined the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and, with it, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). There are 17 goals and 169 targets by which states, civil society, and the private sector can guide themselves and measure their contributions to sustainable development by 2030. Tourism can contribute directly and indirectly to all the goals, but more specifically to goals 8, 12, and 14, which are related to inclusive and sustainable economic development, sustainable consumption and production, and the sustainable use of the oceans and marine resources. Has tourism, particularly in Portugal, contributed directly and indirectly to all the SDGs? In what ways?
I believe that yes, tourism in Portugal and Cape Verde has contributed to all the SDGs, both directly and indirectly.
Let's look at Portugal:
SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth): Job creation and income generation, encouragement of entrepreneurship.
SDG 12 (Sustainable production and consumption): Promoting sustainable practices in accommodation and restaurants, reducing waste.
SDG 14 (Life Below Water): Responsible maritime tourism, conservation of coastal and marine ecosystems.
Other SDGs: Valuing cultural heritage (SDG 11), promoting gender equality (SDG 5), supporting local communities (SDG 1).
And in Cape Verde:
SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth): Job creation in the hotel, restaurant and tourism sectors, boosting the local economy.
SDG 12 (Sustainable production and consumption): Use of local products and responsible consumption practices, appreciation of traditional gastronomy.
SDG 14 (Life Below Water): Promotion of scuba diving tourism and marine species observation, conservation of protected areas such as the Fogo Natural Park.
Other SDGs: Preservation of Cape Verdean culture (SDG 11), empowerment of women in the tourism sector (SDG 5), development of rural communities through tourism (SDG 1).
In addition to these examples, both countries have initiatives for sustainable tourism.
Portugal: Sustainable Tourism Plan 20-23 and the Tourism Strategy 2027.
Cape Verde: Strategic Plan for Sustainable Tourism 2017-2021, focused on diversifying the tourism offer and enhancing the value of natural and cultural heritage.
Both Portugal and Cape Verde have been committed to promoting more sustainable tourism that contributes to economic and social development while preserving the environment and culture for future generations.
Tourism can be a solution for sustainable local development at a time when fishing and other coastal activities are declining. However, tourism can also jeopardize the fragile natural resources and beauty of coastal areas and marine environments. How can tourism be combined with the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems?
It is true that tourism is an engine of development, and it must be sustainable. To achieve this, it is crucial to ensure that tourism does not compromise fragile marine and coastal ecosystems. To combine tourism with environmental protection, we must adopt the following measures:
Plan sustainably: Define limits for tourism and protect sensitive areas.
Adopt responsible practices: Encourage eco-friendly accommodations and low-impact activities.
Educate and raise awareness: Promote environmental awareness among tourists and local communities.
Involving communities: Integrating them into tourism management and ensuring they benefit from the activity.
Using technology: Monitor impacts and develop innovative solutions to reduce the ecological footprint.
-What is your assessment of the first edition of Ocean Summit 2024 – A Vision for the World?
It is with enormous enthusiasm that I view these first few days after the Ocean Summit. The results of the meetings held alongside the debates, the enthusiasm of the participants, the projects presented and, above all, the visibility, have allowed for a paradigm shift and a change in mindsets that facilitates societies' return to the ocean. These were two days of excellence in the exchange of ideas, the presentation of technological innovations, and the meeting between the private sector, political actors, and the scientific community. I fully believe that this event may have definitively marked the beginning of the race to the oceans.
What are the main conclusions of the first edition of the Ocean Summit 2024 – A Vision for the World?
The most important outcome is clearly the beginning of a race to the oceans and the urgency of considering the conquest of our seas as a crucial factor for the future of humanity. Scientific research into the oceans, technological development, and the sustainable use of our seas are the three fundamental pillars for addressing problems such as climate change. However, beyond the conclusions and commitments made by the participants, Lisbon witnessed a giant step towards realizing a dream in the coming years: the creation of the first underwater station, a kind of space station on the ocean floor that will house scientists and aquanauts in the pursuit of knowledge and the construction of a better world.
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