Blue Economy Forum: Global leaders unite to protect our oceans

Prince Albert II of Monaco, Prince William of Wales, French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Costa Rica’s President Rodrigo Chaves Robles joined forces at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum, calling for urgent action to protect the world’s oceans and promote a sustainable economy.

The two-day event, held at the Grimaldi Forum Monaco and attended by Monaco Life, brought together a powerful coalition of leaders, environmental experts, scientists, business innovators, and representatives. The forum served as a crucial prelude to the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice this week. Chaired by Pascal Lamy, former WTO Director-General, and Ilana Sed, UN representative from Palau, the gathering focused on concrete solutions for ocean conservation and sustainable maritime development.

Royal perspectives and scientific imperatives

Prince Albert II expressed cautious optimism regarding the discussions’ outcomes in his opening speech, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts.

French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the scientific imperative for action, firmly rejecting the notion that climate change and ocean degradation are matters of opinion. The President clearly outlined the harsh reality facing oceans, explaining that due to global warming, sea levels are projected to rise by over one meter in worst-case scenarios.

The presence of the Prince of Wales at the Blue Economy Forum shone a spotlight on the UK’s role in ocean innovation. Representing the United Kingdom, Prince William spoke passionately about the power of innovation to drive environmental change, drawing on his personal work through the Earthshot Prize. He shared success stories from prize finalists, including groundbreaking coral restoration efforts that have cultivated over 20,000 corals, and algae-based omega-3 production technologies that have already saved over 2.5 million wild fish in just six months.

Global leadership and practical solutions

Costa Rica’s President Rodrigo Chaves Robles delivered an impassioned call for immediate action, citing his small nation’s leadership as an example. Despite representing just 0.03% of the world’s land area, Costa Rica holds nearly 6% of global biodiversity and has already achieved the 2030 target of protecting 30% of its marine territory well in advance.

Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva brought a developing world perspective to the discussions. He also underscored the economic significance of the ocean while calling for greater international financial commitment.

The forum addressed multiple aspects of the blue economy, from sustainable fisheries and marine biotechnology to renewable energy and tourism. Prince Albert II explained that concrete solutions already exist across all these sectors, emphasizing that “this is no longer just about innovation, although it still plays a key role. This is about practical, operational, and profitable opportunities.”