World Economic Forum Humans rely on the ocean. Here's how both can thrive
May 22, 2025
Alfredo Giron leads the World Economic Forum's Ocean Action Agenda and champions the idea of Marine Prosperity Areas, aiming to harmonize economic growth with ocean conservation. He discusses how crucial the ocean is for food, energy, and global trade while exploring the impact of bottom trawling on marine life. Giron also highlights innovative conservation successes like Cabo Pulmo National Park and emphasizes the importance of community engagement in protecting ocean ecosystems. Tune in to discover how we can benefit from the ocean while safeguarding its health.
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Involve Communities Early
- Involve communities from the start to co-create protection areas and benefit plans.
- Benefits include cultural and economic gains, not just monetary revenues.
Cabo Pulmo Community Success
- Cabo Pulmo National Park's community recovered fish populations by choosing protection sites and enforcing fishing bans.
- After 20 years, fish stocks quadrupled and ecotourism generates nearly $8 million annually.
Community Buy-In Drives Success
- Social cohesion and local buy-in drive ecological restoration success in marine protected areas.
- Communities choose optimal sites and sustain protection due to pride and cultural values.