The Blue Economy

The Blue Economy has emerged as a strategy to align ocean-based growth with sustainability and equity. This study critically examines its foundations, key sectors, environmental challenges, governance, and future pathways through a structured literature review and case study synthesis drawing on 110 sources, including UNCLOS, SDG 14, Seychelles' Blue Bond, and EU Marine Spatial Planning. Findings show substantial economic potential, estimated at over $3 trillion annually by 2030, yet persistent issues of overfishing, pollution, and fragmented governance. While technological and financial innovations are advancing, they require safeguards to ensure equity and accountability. The paper offers six policy recommendations for inclusive and sustainable outcomes, concluding that the Blue Economy is both a major opportunity and a governance challenge, demanding integrated and ethically grounded strategies.