Blue Life Hub

As the world focuses on the potential of the blue economy, countries in the Global South are taking steps to conserve and sustainably manage our seas. One such initiative is Tanzania Dive Labs, led by Nancy Iraba. This effort not only promotes marine conservation but also strengthens local communities through education and economic opportunities. Tanzania Dive Labs exemplifies how environmental conservation and economic development can coexist, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future. The secret to their success is inclusion. In the Global South, where ocean pollution is most severe, projects such as Tanzania Dive Labs are rethinking conservation practices. Iraba’s leadership ensures that varied perspectives and experiences drive solutions to our ocean’s concerns. Tanzania Dive Labs makes conservation efforts both ethical and practical by incorporating marine conservation workers and those most affected, demonstrating that everyone’s voice is important in effecting change.

Aquaculture in the Mediterranean, a sector that has seen an exponential evolution since the mid-20th century, is now an essential component of the region’s economy and food sustainability. This sector has witnessed a radical transformation, as highlighted by a recent study published in PLOS ONE and led by Benedetto Sicuro of the University of Turin. The paper draws a detailed picture of the functional and geographical expansion of aquaculture in the Mediterranean from 1950 to 2020, providing valuable predictions for the future. #blueeconomy #bluetransformation #mediterranean #aquaculture

As the aquaculture industry faces the challenge of finding cost-effective and environmentally friendly feed solutions, one promising alternative has emerged – lupine (Lupinus spp.). This versatile legume has garnered increasing attention for its nutritional value and potential to revolutionize the way we approach aquafeed formulations. A team of researchers from the Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Fisheries University (India) published a scientific review exploring the potential of lupine in the aquaculture industry, focusing on its nutritional value, digestibility, and impact on the health and growth of fish. The researchers also analyze recent findings, challenges, and possible advancements to provide insights into how lupine could drive the development of sustainable aquaculture techniques. Lupine, a versatile legume grown in various regions, is rich in protein and has a balanced profile of essential amino acids crucial for the optimal growth and development of fish. Moreover, research has indicated that the inclusion of lupine in fish diets can positively affect fish health, potentially improving their immune response and overall well-being. #lupine #blueeconomy #blueeconomy #aquaculture

In response to the urgent need for reliable climate change information across Africa, Dialogue Earth, in collaboration with partners, experts, and seasoned African journalists, has developed a free, six-part course on “Reporting Climate Change in Africa.” This innovative program aims to equip young and upcoming African journalists with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively cover the climate crisis impacting the continent. Africa, home to 1.2 billion people, is at the forefront of the global climate emergency, facing a range of challenges from rising temperatures and extreme weather events to droughts and food insecurity. Effective and informed reporting on these critical issues is crucial for raising awareness, driving policy changes, and empowering communities to adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate change. #bluetransformation #blueeconomy #environment #africa

One of the great joys of being a marine biologist is the opportunity to research marine organisms’ biology, behavior, and ecology. Explore vibrant coral reefs, or dive deep to study deep-sea creatures. In addition to the stunning natural environments, marine biologists have the privilege of getting up close and personal with amazing marine life. From observing the graceful movements of whales and dolphins to discovering new microscopic species, one of those people who explores the beauty of these environments is Reem Hossam. Reem Hossam is a graduate of the Faculty of Fisheries at Aswan University, where she was consistently at the top of her class and earned a distinction. She works as a marine biologist and educational officer at the Red Sea Project in Marsa Alam, Egypt. #blueeconomy #bluetransformation #Sustainability

As our oceans become increasingly dominated by jellyfish populations, many are advocating a novel solution – if you can’t beat them, eat them. This unusual approach to the jellyfish boom is gaining traction around the world, presenting both environmental and culinary opportunities. Jellyfish populations have exploded in recent decades, largely due to overfishing, pollution, and climate change. These gelatinous creatures thrive in degraded ocean ecosystems, outcompeting and displacing fish and other marine life. Rather than viewing this as a problem to be solved, some experts suggest we should embrace the jellyfish takeover and start incorporating them into our diets. Jellyfish are already a delicacy in many Asian cuisines, prized for their unique crunchy texture and subtle flavor. But this culinary tradition is now spreading globally, with chefs experimenting with jellyfish in innovative dishes. From jellyfish salads and stir-fries to jellyfish burgers and sushi, these nutritious invertebrates are proving to be surprisingly versatile. #jellyfish #sustainability #bluetransformation #blueeconomy

The Great Barrier Reef, one of the planet’s most precious natural assets, is facing an unprecedented crisis. A recent study published in the journal Nature revealed that the Coral Sea’s surface temperatures reached in 2024 the highest levels ever recorded in the last 400 years. This finding not only highlights the vulnerability of corals, but also highlights the devastating impact of climate change on our marine environment. Corals, with their unique ability to record climate variations through their skeletons, have become silent witnesses to centuries of environmental change. Using core samples, scientists have been able to chart a detailed chronology of ocean temperatures and sea level changes from 1618 to the present day. These data offer a clear and alarming insight: global warming has pushed ocean temperatures to unprecedented levels, far exceeding those recorded during the entire Industrial Revolution. #blueeconomy #bluetransformation #sustainability #climatechange

Kerteminde, a picturesque harbour town in central Denmark, has become the centre of important research conducted by the University of Southern Denmark (SDU). Here, a team of scientists studies the jellyfish that thrive just below the surface of the water, collecting samples and monitoring environmental conditions to understand the causes of their proliferation. The researchers have identified several factors that contribute to the growth of jellyfish populations, including overfishing, which removes their predators and competitors, and agricultural runoff, which depletes oxygen in the water. Unlike other marine species, jellyfish are not bothered by low oxygen levels, which allows them to thrive in environments less favourable to other organisms. #blueeconomy #bluetransformation #sustainability

The global focus on aquaculture is on Tunisia, with the National Institute of Marine Science and Technology (INSTM) signing a hosting agreement on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries. This agreement marks a significant commitment by the Tunisian government in ensuring the success of the third annual international conference and exhibition of the African section of the World Aquaculture Society (AFRAQ2024), to be held in Hammamet from 19 to 22 November 2024. #bluetransformation #blueeconomy #africa World Aquaculture Society

Traditional fishing in Africa is crucial for food security and the economy of many coastal and inland communities. Despite challenges like overfishing and industrial competition threatening biodiversity, it remains vital to African culture and economy. Over the past two years, E4Impact, a social change organization committed to empowering a new generation of African impact entrepreneurs, has deepened its understanding of the blue economy, focusing on the socio-economic dynamics within local communities. Supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and together with CIHEAM Bari, E4Impact launched two multi-country projects in Senegal, Uganda, and Tanzania to strengthen traditional fishing through entrepreneurship and public-private dialogue. E4Impact Foundation #blueeconomy #bluetransformation