Sailing Towards Sustainability: Marine Spatial Planning As The Key To South Asia’s Blue Economy
- NLR Journal
- Mar 29
- 2 min read
By Dev Shah, Harshvardhan Yadav & Aryan Borse, ILS Law College, Pune.
Abstract
The Concept of the Blue Economy has become evident as an imminent key base for sustainable development in most of the coastal nations around the world, where marine resources represent completely untapped potential, for example, in South Asia. The Indian subcontinent, with its vast coastline and rich marine resources, can unlock the potential of its blue economy while balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. The recent Interim Budget emphasised on the commitment advancing towards Blue Economy 2.0 in the Indian subcontinent. This new initiative introduces a panoramic scheme focused on Mariculture, aquatic biodiversity, restoration efforts, adaptation strategies, coastal aquaculture. The Indian Subcontinent needs an integrated, multi-sectoral approach to achieve sustainable development and ensure the effective management of marine resources. The Blue Economy (BE) is an emerging field offering a diverse range of ocean dependent economic activities, promoting sustainable growth and preserving marine ecosystems in the region. The Blue Economy has the potential to transform South Asia and other regions which rely heavily on their coastlines and marine resources. By utilising the ocean's resources through fishing, tourism, and maritime trade, nations in the region can strengthen their economies, reduce poverty rates, and enhance food security. In many ways, the ocean serves as a vital lifeline for millions of people. In the present Scenario, these ecosystems often face external challenges from climate change, pollution, and unsustainable practices which threaten both human livelihoods and the environment. This research paper focuses on Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) as the strategic key to unlocking the Blue Economy in South Asia and offering a structured framework which balances economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity.
Marine Spatial Planning is an organised way to manage and utilise the ocean and its resources. MSP helps in reducing clashes, enhancing efficiency in resource use, and promotes conservation of natural resources by incorporating multiple sectors such as the local community, business and the government.
In South Asia, especially in India, there is an urgent need to expand the marine spatial planning processes in order to tackle problems such as over-exploitation of fish stock, destruction of marine habitats, and the vulnerability of coastal resources to climate change.
This paper focuses on how Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) can help South Asian nations overcome their challenges. India, with its extensive Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), plays a crucial role in leading MSP efforts in the region. The Indian Ocean, which is considered as vital for shipping, fishing, and potential offshore energy, is important to the region’s future. The research paper refers to primary sources such as the UN's Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, SDG 14 (Life Below Water), World Bank Reports, etc. The paper includes various global case studies (USA. Europe, Canada) where MSP has successfully addressed the similar problems, offering practical lessons for South Asia to adopt.
Keywords: Blue Economy, Marine Spatial Planning, Sustainability, Resource Management.
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