Sustainable Marine Resource Use Vital for Future Growth
He called for coordinated efforts by governments, industry and educational institutions and highlighted the Deep Ocean Mission
VIJAYAWADA: Sustainable utilisation of marine resources while protecting ocean health is essential for future economic growth, National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru, director Dr Shailesh Nayak said.
Speaking after inaugurating the Centre of Excellence on Blue Economy at Vignan’s University, Vadlamudi, on Saturday, Dr Nayak said the blue economy should go beyond commercial activities and integrate climate change, ecological balance, livelihoods and human safety.
Established with the theme “Sustainable Ocean – Thriving Future”, the Centre will focus on marine resources, coastal conservation, ocean technologies, blue growth, research, innovation, policy and skill development.
Dr Nayak said Andhra Pradesh, with its extensive coastline and technological capabilities, had immense potential in the sector.
Union ministry of earth sciences secretary Dr Srinivasa Kumar Tummala said fisheries, shipping, offshore wind and wave energy, tourism and logistics offered major opportunities. He called for coordinated efforts by governments, industry and educational institutions and highlighted the Deep Ocean Mission.
INCOIS director Dr T.M. Balakrishnan Nair said integration of ocean-based sectors was crucial and expressed hope that the Centre would become a regional research and skill-development hub.
Vignan’s University and INCOIS signed an MoU for collaboration in ocean observation, information systems, research, technology transfer, training and internships.
Narasaraopet MP and Vignan’s Institutions vice-chairman Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu highlighted opportunities in marine biotechnology, offshore energy, aquaculture, seaweed and marine minerals, stressing value addition and technology-based solutions.