One Earth: Blind spots in visions of a “blue economy” could undermine the ocean's contribution to eliminating hunger and malnutrition

The production of seafood is part of the larger blue economy that is perceived to be a major solution to hunger by offering an alternative source of food. But is this correct? In a study published in One Earth, center researcher Max Troell and colleagues, among others from the Solomon Islands, counter these assumptions and offer a more differentiated picture of the ocean economy. In particular, they identified so-called “blind spots”, which seem to be unfounded statements that the authors assessed and rectified. These blind spots are:

• Growth in the blue economy will lead to growth in blue food production and consumption
• Increasing food production will directly lead to reduced hunger
• Mariculture production will replace declining capture fisheries

The authors believe that a broader food-system that surpasses the idea that production is the answer to food insecurity is needed. On top of that,  a growing need for food access, affordability, and consumption, must be addressed. In general, considering the “blind spots” mentioned can effectively alleviate hunger and thus contribute to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal No. 2: Zero Hunger.

Access the One Earth report here. You may also read an analysis of this report by the Stockholm Resilience Center here.

Image: Papua New Guinea/ UNDP Papua New Guinea