Blue economy

BLUE economy, the extended step of green economy, has already established a strong position to face the challenges of the 21st century, that is, attaining economic growth and saving environmental balance of the world. Blue economy stands for utilisation of ocean for sustainable economic development. Following settlement of sea peripheral disputes, Bangladesh now possesses more than 1,18,813 square km of territorial sea areas. Besides, having undisputed sway of economic zone for 200 nautical miles, it also has the sovereign right on all kinds of marine resources up to 354 nautical miles from Chittagong coastal belt. Out of 27, Bangladesh has got 22 blocks from India and Myanmar. But no survey has yet been made yet to assess the marine resources. As experts opine, there is a huge possibility of discovering petroleum and gas in Bangladesh portion of the sea like those of neighbouring India and Myanmar. The sea resources will not only be able to provide fuel security in the coming days, it will also change the overall economic scenario of Bangladesh. A double-digit GDP can easily be reached with appropriate exploitation of aquatic resources. Massive employment opportunities may be generated by the bounty of blue economy, and millions of people can depend on sea for their livelihoods, food security and economic development. Top priority to this area is essential to facilitate sound management of aquatic resources for sustainable development. Exploiting full potential of blue economy is a long-cherished desire for building a Sonar Bangla.
Md. Ruhul Amin
Asstt.Vice President
Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd.
Beanibazar Branch, Sylhet.
[email protected]