Greek Minister of Environment and Energy, Theodoros Skylakakis, emphasizes the importance of utilizing ocean-based wind, solar, tidal, and carbon storage to achieve sustainability goals, in addition to traditional wind energy. The upcoming Our Ocean Conference in Athens aims to address challenges such as climate change and pollution, while also promoting the blue economy’s potential for sustainable development. Through international commitments and investments, progress has been made in protecting oceans and creating jobs on land. Skylakakis highlights Greece’s advancements in offshore wind development, signaling a commitment to mitigating climate change, enhancing energy security, and generating employment opportunities.
Greece achieved a significant decarbonisation milestone in 2022 when renewable energy sources met 100% of the country’s electricity demands for five consecutive hours. The government plans to further integrate renewable energy into the energy mix by partnering with HERENA to install offshore wind capacity by 2030. This initiative not only supports emission reduction efforts but also benefits industries like shipbuilding and cable manufacturing. Through the pilot licensing of offshore wind farms, Greece aims to strengthen the supply chain and prepare for the project’s expansion.
Despite progress in renewable energy deployment, global efforts are needed to transition to a net-zero economy by 2050, particularly to address climate change threats to the ocean. The International Energy Agency and the Global Wind Energy Council highlight the increasing capacity of renewable energy sources, including offshore wind. Skylakakis stresses the urgency of implementing various ocean-based solutions beyond wind energy to meet sustainability objectives. The Our Ocean Conference serves as a platform to drive global collaboration and innovation in maritime sustainability, with the Mediterranean Sea as a fitting backdrop for discussions and commitments.
Skylakakis urges stakeholders to embrace renewable energy technologies and conservation measures as critical components of the transition to a net-zero economy. The exponential growth of renewable energy capacity worldwide underscores the potential for further advancements in sustainable practices. Greece’s ambitious plans for offshore wind development align with the country’s commitment to environmental protection and economic growth. Participants at the Our Ocean Conference are encouraged to make ambitious commitments that contribute to global efforts in combating climate change and promoting sustainable ocean management.
The blue economy’s significance in driving sustainable development is underscored as leaders from diverse sectors convene at the Our Ocean Conference to address pressing challenges faced by oceans worldwide. Skylakakis emphasizes the economic benefits of sustainable ocean-based investments and the importance of creating conservation measures that benefit both marine ecosystems and human populations. Through collective action and collaboration, the conference aims to inspire innovative solutions and commitments that support a transition towards a more sustainable and resilient ocean economy. Greece’s showcase of progress in offshore wind development serves as an example of how countries can leverage renewable energy technologies to achieve climate goals while fostering economic prosperity.
