13 Jun 2024
In a high-level discussion, participants emphasized the critical role of the blue economy in sustainable development, highlighting Saudi Arabia's and Ecuador's initiatives. Saudi Arabia is working towards integrating environmental conservation with economic growth, aiming for a 30% protection of land and marine areas by 2030. Ecuador achieved a significant debt-for-nature swap, enhancing marine conservation and reducing sovereign debt. The conversation underscored the need for actionable data to attract investors and demonstrate the financial viability of protecting oceans, which are vital for global trade, jobs, and billions of people's livelihoods. Engaging local communities and global cooperation were deemed essential for successful sustainability projects.