In the face of escalating climate change impacts, the Mediterranean Sea stands at the frontline, not only as a hotspot of environmental and anthropogenic pressures but also as a beacon of hope through its potential as a significant carbon sink.
The “Blue Carbon Frontiers” panel is a groundbreaking assembly of global experts poised to unravel the intricate dynamics of the Mediterranean as a pivotal carbon sink, focusing on the synergies between ecological science, technological innovation, finance, and policy-making.
This panel aims to illuminate the path toward sustainable engagement with the Mediterranean’s unique blue carbon ecosystems—seagrasses, salt marshes, and mangroves—that sequester carbon dioxide, thereby playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change.
Amidst the backdrop of increasing ocean temperatures, acidification, and biodiversity loss, this panel endeavors to spark a comprehensive discourse on harnessing the Mediterranean Sea’s carbon sequestration capacities to fortify climate resilience essential for responding to the climatic challenges we are facing. It seeks to explore the latest advancements in oceanographic research, data analytics, and bio-indicators that can provide actionable insights into the health and functionality of these blue carbon ecosystems.
Moreover, the discussion will pivot towards identifying and scaling up innovative financial models and investment strategies. These strategies are essential for mobilizing the requisite capital towards conservation efforts, restoration projects, and sustainable development initiatives, all of which underpin the health of the Mediterranean and its efficacy as a carbon sink.
Panelists will dissect various financial instruments, including green bonds, climate funds, and impact investments, to determine how they can be effectively tailored and deployed within the Mediterranean context to support blue carbon projects.
Integral to this dialogue is the exploration of policy frameworks and multi-lateral cooperation mechanisms. The panel will examine how nations bordering the Mediterranean Sea can collaborate through shared goals, policies, and initiatives to enhance the sea’s role in global carbon cycling, protect its marine biodiversity, and ensure the socioeconomic well-being of millions reliant on its resources.
Through this panoramic exploration, “Blue Carbon Frontiers” aims to catalyze a multidimensional strategy that not only underscores the Mediterranean’s critical role in the global fight against climate change but also charts a sustainable course for its preservation and rejuvenation. The panel is a clarion call to policymakers, scientists, financiers, and conservationists to converge on innovative solutions that leverage the Mediterranean’s blue carbon potential, ensuring it remains a vibrant, life-sustaining, and climate-resilient sea for generations to come.
The webinar is organised by the Euro-Mediterranean Economists Association (EMEA) in collaboration with the Centre Scientifique de Monaco (CSM) and the Union for the Mediterranian, and will take place on Thursday 13th April, 15:00-16:30 CET, on Zoom.
AGENDA
Moderator: Rym Ayadi, President and Founder, Euro-Mediterranean Economists Association – EMEA
Panelists:
- Nathalie Hilmi, Section Head of Environmental Economics, Centre Scientific de Monaco, EMEA Advisor
- Giselle Arruda, Interdisciplinary researcher, US Artic Committee
- Markus Muller, Managing Director, Chief Investment Officer ESG and Global Head CEO Private Bank, Deutsche Bank
- Torsten Thiele, Founder, Global Ocean Trust and Senior Advisor, Blue Carbon Accelerator Fund, EMEA Advisor
- Tatjana Hema, UNEP/MAP-Barcelona Convention Coordinator
- Grammenos Mastrojeni, Senior Deputy Secretary General, Union for the Mediterranean
- Filippo Tessari, Head – Office of the Executive Director / HR Manager, Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei (TBC)
