The Blue Economy
By Bob McKenna, Virginia Peninsula Chamber
As global challenges like climate change, coastal resilience, and sustainable development take center stage, regions with access to coastal and marine assets are uniquely positioned to lead. The Virginia Peninsula, with its strategic location and wealth of water-based resources, is emerging as a hub for what’s known as the Blue Economy—a powerful and growing sector that harnesses the economic potential of our oceans, rivers, and waterways.
The Blue Economy encompasses a wide array of industries and innovations—from marine science, aquaculture, and sustainable water treatment to port logistics, maritime engineering, and coastal infrastructure. It represents a convergence of economic development and environmental stewardship, where ocean-related activities support jobs, enhance resilience, and drive long-term prosperity.
On Friday, June 27, the Virginia Peninsula Chamber invites you to the next session in our Rising Tide series, focusing on Exploring the Blue Economy. This special event will bring together regional experts and institutions such as HRSD SWIFT, Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), the Port of Virginia, and Virginia Seafood Agricultural Research and Extension Center (AREC), leading the charge in this vital space.
