Cultural Heritage and the Blue Economy: What is being done in Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) possess an immense cultural wealth deeply connected to the ocean. In diverse cultures, the sea is recognized as more than just a source of natural resources, but represents tradition, identity, and ancestral knowledge, shaping the cultural and economic practices of diverse nations for centuries.

With the expansion and creation of Blue Economy policies, a unique opportunity emerges to integrate Cultural Heritage, in its intangible and tangible nature, as a strategic asset. Countries like Fiji and the Solomon Islands are already demonstrating how this synergy can strengthen environmental sustainability, economic and social development.

Cultural Heritage and the Blue Economy — **Koror, Palau.** © **CanvaPro.**

Opportunities for the Future

Culture as a Pillar of the Blue Economy

Traditional knowledge from coastal communities—such as artisanal fishing techniques, ancestral navigation, way-finding, ecosystem knowledge, and maritime rituals—are essential tools for sustainable ocean management. Participative ocean management requires effective engagement from civil society, and by combining local wisdom with scientific research and strategic plans, it is possible to create more effective policies that balance conservation efforts with cultural identity.

Fiji, for example, has acknowledged in its National Ocean Policy that traditional ecological knowledge plays a key role in ocean governance. The document states that the Pacific Ocean is central to Fijian culture, and it explicitly mentions the connection between traditional knowledge, cultural practices, and heritage with scientific research for better resource management.

In the Solomon Islands, the ocean is viewed not just as an economic resource but as an integral part of cultural identity. The country’s National Ocean Policy framework recognizes traditional knowledge systems, where local communities have historically controlled and managed their coastal areas based on spiritual and cultural beliefs.

Sustainable Cultural Tourism

Authentic experiences, connected with communities' lifestyles and low-impact practices, are increasingly being valued in global tourism. Cultural heritage-based tourism can boost local economies in multiple ways, including:

Cape Verde has begun promoting solidarity and inclusive tourism, on Maio and São Vicente Islands, where cultural heritage—including music, crafts, and culinary traditions—are recognized as a valuable asset.
São Tomé and Príncipe have linked heritage-based tourism with ecotourism strategies, emphasizing the importance of local traditions and cultural landscapes to attract visitors.
Fiji has highlighted the importance of culinary traditions, recognizing that food security and traditional diets are deeply tied to the ocean and cultural identity.

These practices not only generate income but also preserve cultural heritage and promote the protection of marine ecosystems.

Educating and Training the Next Generations

Including cultural heritage in educational systems in schools, while supporting communities to promote practices, can ensure that traditional (and ecological) knowledge continues to be valued and applied. Additionally, training young people and women to work in sectors of a sustainable blue economy such as cultural tourism, environmental conservation, and blue entrepreneurship creates new job opportunities and strengthens local economies.

Solomon Islanders identify as "ocean people," emphasizing the historic and cultural links between communities and the sea. Their ocean governance framework incorporates traditional ecological knowledge into education programs to ensure that younger generations maintain a connection with their heritage.

In Fiji, the government supports training initiatives that combine traditional navigation techniques—such as those used in the construction and use of Drua canoes—with modern sustainability principles. These projects highlight how ancestral knowledge can be applied to contemporary challenges like marine conservation and low-carbon transport.

The Future of the Blue Economy is also Cultural

Integrating Cultural Heritage into the Blue Economy is not just an alternative—it is a necessity for building a sustainable and inclusive future.

By valuing ocean-related cultural practices with communities' consent and involvement, we can empower individuals, create new economic opportunities, and reinforce commitments to environmental conservation.

Do you want to know more about how to connect Cultural Heritage to a Blue Economy? Write us a line! Let's talk!

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