The increasing potential of the Blue Economy in Barbados as a sustainable approach to diversify the economy and create jobs is one of the key messages highlighted by the recent rapid Blue Economy Scoping Study elaborated by UNDP under the leadership of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Blue Economy and in consultation with key stakeholders. The document will serve to stir discussions around relevant policies and long-term strategies.

This research is part of the support that UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Multi-Country Office is providing to governments in the region with the objective of promoting resilience and accelerating the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals in the Caribbean. Under the motto of "Blue Economy for Green Islands” UNDP is providing technical and financial assistance to strengthen businesses, create jobs and improve lives. The impact of the COVID-19 crisis has emphasised the importance of this work and the Blue Economy is at the core of UNDP’s COVID-19 Response Programme, which is now transitioning to the second phase: From Economic Recovery to Expansion.”