Blue Economy of the Arctic

Abstract

With the emergence of economic globalization, the concept of the blue economy has evolved from fisheries to a wider context that comprised all kinds of biological and mineral resources, maritime trade, shipping, energy, and tourism. Intensive economic exploration of water areas is changing ecosystems, affecting biodiversity, and threatening sustainability. The transformations are felt globally in a form of climate change and environmental degradation, but the Arctic has appeared to be particularly vulnerable. Using the case of China, this chapter attempts to contribute to the convergence of economic benefits of exploring the Arctic with the urgent need for the protection of a fragile Arctic environment. The authors discuss how China's involvement in the Arctic-related activities can benefit the sustainable development of the blue economy in the region.