On the occasion of a European Parliament event last January 2020, the Courrier du Parlement interviewed and explored different views from two French and European actors involved in the European Union on issues surrounding the ocean and its sustainable use: French MEP Catherine Chabaud and Pierre Bahurel, Director General of Mercator Ocean International (link to article here).

The ocean has recently been fully recongised for its role in challenges facing the planet. The United Nations has proclaimed that we are in the Decade of Ocean Sciences for Sustainable Development (2021-2030).  Political decision-makers, public services, entrepreneurs, associations and the general public are increasingly concerned and even involved in the environmental, economic and societal challenges that confronts.

Through concrete examples and their respective commitment, Catherine Chabaud and Pierre Bahurel enlighten us on the strategic importance of ocean, understanding its characteristics, and the ecosystem in order to better protect it and develop a sustainable blue economy. France and the European Union have an aligned and harmonious approach to this important issue.