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Home > GCR > Vol. 35 > Iss. 1 (2024)

 

Alternate Title

Advancing The Blue Economy Through Sustainable Mariculture: The Prospect of Pearl Oyster and Sponge Cultivation in St. Vincent and The Grenadines

Document Type

Article

Abstract

The Blue Economy is estimated to be worth over USD 2.5 trillion annually, or almost 3% of the world’s GDP in 2020. St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) in the Caribbean region has a vast and rich marine space that is underutilized. This study aimed to explore the feasibility of pearl oyster and sponge farming to advance the country’s Blue Economy through sustainable mariculture. A qualitative approach was applied, using a literature review and thematic analysis of data gathered through semi—structured interviews and focus group discussions with relevant stakeholders. Among several species evaluated, the result of the study revealed that the Pinctada imbricata oyster species and Hippospongia lachne sponge species are the most suitable for cultivation in SVG coastal waters, specifically in the Ashton Lagoon of Union Island. The study concluded that while there is strong support from the stakeholders in SVG for pearl oyster and sponge farming in the country, challenges still exist. Nevertheless, it has been found that by learning and adopting the strategies of the leading Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the Blue Economy development combined with the critical enablers such as meticulous planning, stakeholder collaboration, establishment of legal frameworks, and ecosystem—based management, pearl oyster and sponge mariculture in the identified location in SVG could potentially aid the expansion of the country’s Blue Economy.

First Page

43

Last Page

56

Supplemental Data
Providence Supplemental Table S1.pdf (92 kB)
Supplemental Table S1
Providence Supplemental Table S2.pdf (146 kB)
Supplemental Table S2
Providence Supplemental Table S3.pdf (152 kB)
Supplemental Table S3
Providence Supplemental Table S4.pdf (141 kB)
Supplemental Table S4

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Statement

No artificial intelligence (AI) was used in the preparation of this manuscript

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