- Why does this glossary matter?
In this edition, we highlight a theme that cuts across several articles: the Blue Economy and Climate Action. Cape Verde is the sea; more than 99% of its territory is ocean, and this resource is vital to our survival, food security, and economic development. However, it is also vulnerable: sea-level rise, ocean acidification, and biodiversity loss are already realities.
How can this vulnerability be transformed into opportunity? How can we ensure that the blue economy contributes to climate resilience and to a sustainable future?
To address these questions, we present key concepts that help to understand and apply practical solutions to protect marine ecosystems and integrate climate action into the ocean sector.
Key Concepts
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Sustainable Blue Economy | An economic model that values marine and coastal resources while promoting conservation, technological innovation, and income generation in a responsible manner. It includes sectors such as fisheries, tourism, maritime transport, and ocean-based renewable energy. |
| Climate Bioindicators | Organisms used to assess the health of marine and coastal ecosystems. These indicators provide essential data to monitor the impacts of climate change, such as ocean acidification and biodiversity loss, supporting science-based policymaking. |
| Sustainable Fishing | A set of practices that ensure the maintenance of fishery resources while reducing environmental impacts and guaranteeing food security. In Cape Verde, initiatives such as Mosteiros Resilient exemplify this approach, using technologies that increase productivity while protecting ecosystems. |
How to use this glossary?
This set of concepts serves as a foundation for:
- Strategic planning in public policies related to the blue economy;
- Technical capacity building for professionals in the maritime sector;
- Social awareness of sustainable practices in fisheries and marine conservation;
- Cross-cutting integration of climate action in sectors such as tourism, transport, and technological innovation.
Building a resilient blue economy is a collective process. With knowledge, we can transform vulnerabilities into opportunities and ensure a safer future for Cape Verde.