Dr Eva Anggraeni: Implementation of the Blue Economy Concept Could Answer the Challenges of National Food Security

The COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical crisis have affected world food production. In addition, climate change in the last 10 years has affected natural resources and hydrological changes.

According to Dr Eva Anggraeni, Director of Global Connectivity at IPB University, the concept of blue economy could answer these challenges. The urgency of the blue economy can encourage the sustainable use of marine resources and is very relevant to global sustainable development targets. The urgency continues to strengthen in recent years, especially since two-thirds of Indonesia's territory is water.

"Indonesia must be ready to face this challenge as an archipelago that is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. On the other hand, it shows great potential and positions itself as a pioneer in the implementation of the blue economy," she said in the Pre-Musyda National Seminar of Muhammadiyah and 'Aisyiyah Banyumas with the topic 'Integrated Agriculture and Fisheries Development to Realize National Food Security' (5/5).

Dr Eva explained that the concept of the blue economy is very comprehensive. In its application, there needs to be a paradigm shift in Indonesia and the world, although it is not an easy process. There needs to be determination from the government supported by literacy and awareness from the community. 

"Blue economy has also been adapted by IPB University through the concept of Agromaritime 4.0 which was developed as a research roadmap. Agromaritime 4.0 innovation is directed to encourage food security through technology that is more efficient, productive and integrated," added the IPB University lecturer from the Department of Resource and Environmental Economics.