The Blue Economy: Blue Resources

Planet earth’s defining feature is the ocean and it is the reason that life exists. It produces oxygen, absorbs carbon dioxide and contributes to freshwater renewal. It connects countries and cultures, and supports ecosystems that bridge national boundaries. Nations are increasingly looking to the ocean to meet the needs of their people, particularly coastal communities and island nations. Some are looking at their large lakes and rivers to do the same. This MOOC introduces key blue economy sectors that can be developed, for example, Fisheries, Aquaculture, Marine Renewable Energy, Seabed Mining and Marine Biotechnology. The course also explores some of the key considerations that influence the sustainability of individual sectors and blue economy strategies as a whole.

Week 1 Fisheries

Week 2 Aquaculture

Week 3 Marine Renewable Energy

Week 4 Seabed Mining

Week 5 Marine Biotechnology

Whether you live in a landlocked or coastal nation, the benefits of developing a sustainable Blue Economy are relevant. Over five weeks you’ll discover how and why the Blue Economy concept is driving innovative thinking about how we engage with the ocean and how it supports societies. Through discussion forums and a live session with course tutors, you’ll get to interact and collaborate with other learners, plus the videos (including featured experts), reading, and quizzes help you understand the material. All this for only 4-5 hours of your time per week.

Course Inclusions

Once you sign up, your access will include all materials, including videos and course-related readings. This is MOOC three of four and it can be taken on its own, but you will gain the most value by taking all four MOOCs. 

This is an introductory course for persons from various backgrounds, both technical and non-technical. The integrated, multi-sectoral nature of the Blue Economy provides an opportunity for new knowledge to be developed, regardless of how much or how little you may know. Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

1. Describe the key components that form part of each blue sector.
2. Discuss the factors that influence the sustainability of each blue sector. 
3. Assess the role of the blue sectors in the evolution of a nation's Blue Economy as a whole. 

Upon completion, you will receive recognition through a verified, easily shareable Certificate to highlight the knowledge and skills you’ve gained. A certificate of completion will be awarded to participants who successfully complete and pass five (5) quizzes with 70% and more and participate in the forum discussions.