A series of symposiums will be held during Blue Economy Week, covering themes such as “The Frontlines of Aquaculture and Its Potential,” “Ocean Ecosystem Restoration and Ocean Visualization,” and “Disappearing Seaweed Forests: Conservation and Restoration Efforts Across Japan.” These special events will feature experts from various fields, local government officials, and researchers from SPF’s Ocean Policy Research Institute. On the final day, singer, actress, and Palau Goodwill Ambassador Minako Tanaka will deliver a special choral performance.
The blue economy refers to an approach that seeks to sustainably develop industries and economies while preserving the ocean environment and ecosystems, ensuring the responsible use of marine resources. This concept is drawing increasing attention both in Japan and globally as a viable solution for balancing ecological protection with economic growth, driven by pressing issues such as ocean warming and acidification caused by climate change, and the growing threat of ocean pollution, including plastic waste. Overfishing has also severely depleted ocean resources, underscoring the urgency of transitioning to more sustainable practices.
The blue economy spans a wide range of activities and industries. In Japan, one example is “Umigyo”—a coastal revitalization initiative said to have originated in Miura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. It combines fisheries with tourism, dining, commerce, and education to boost local economies. Other efforts include the conservation and restoration of marine plants like eelgrass (Zostera), kombu, and wakame, which absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Eelgrass meadows in particular help purify water and increase fish populations. Japan has also introduced a system called J Blue Credit, which monetizes the CO₂ absorbed by eelgrass and allows it to be traded as credits.
This year is being referred as a “Super Year for the Ocean,” with major international conferences on the horizon, including the UN Ocean Conference (June, Nice), the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (August, Yokohama), and COP30 (November, Brazil). Additionally, the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, which began in 2021, has reached its midpoint, reinforcing global momentum for ocean-related initiatives.
With its Ocean Policy Research Institute, SPF is committed to building a more peaceful world through ocean-centered solutions. By promoting evidence-based policy and enhancing international collaboration, the foundation supports ocean conservation efforts worldwide. Blue Economy Week at the Blue Ocean Dome pavilion, which highlights the theme “Regeneration of the Ocean,” is a key initiative within this broader mission. We invite you to join us in exploring the future of our planet, ocean, people, and society through this weeklong event.
BLUE ECONOMY WEEK
Dates: Monday, June 2 – Sunday, June 8
Venue: BLUE OCEAN DOME, Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai (Konohana Ward, Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture)
Event Schedule (subject to change):
