Supporting the "Blue" Economy

ICTP, based in the seaside city of Trieste, Italy, joined a gathering of Italian and international research institutes, entrepreneurs and economists, as well as the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, to discuss the role of science in the socioeconomic conditions of the Mediterranean region.

The event, an advanced school held from 4 to 8 July and titled “Sustainable Blue Growth in Mediterranean and Black Sea Countries”, attracted participants from 28 countries in the region. The event is in line with the European Union’s Blue Growth Initiative, the strategy that recognizes the seas and oceans as a motor for economic and social growth of the continent. The strategy includes goals to train a new generation of scientists capable of facing the new climate challenges, planning economic and environmental sustainable development and maintaining dialogue between the peoples of the Mediterranean.

The Italian National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics (OGS) organized the training school to strengthen professional skills and enhancing competencies in fields related to the blue economy.

In his welcome remarks at the event’s opening session, ICTP Director Fernando Quevedo highlighted the importance of international scientific cooperation, a cornerstone of ICTP’s mission. He also stressed the importance of investing in basic science as a driver for economic growth.

“Theoretical physics and pure mathematics are often ignored in discussions about the importance of science for development and the well-being of society,” he noted, adding, “The  connection between theory and its end result is rarely immediate and often unintended. But that should not stop countries, both rich and poor, from supporting basic sciences. History has shown that in the long run, this is one of the best investments they can make.”

Photos from the school are available here.