How can Montenegro turn the Adriatic into an economic growth engine? - On the wave of blue economy and opportunity for sustainable development and new jobs

- Transnational calls for project applications are expected to be announced in the following period, which will enable domestic institutions to join international projects and contribute to the development of innovative solutions for the sustainable use of marine resources. Thus, research and institutional capacities are strengthened, the application of modern technologies is encouraged, and the economy opens up new opportunities for investment and employment, while simultaneously preserving the Adriatic as a strategic resource - adds Rmuš.

- The cooperation of local communities, science and the economy is of essential importance for the development of the blue economy, but also the overall economy. Residents of coastal areas know best the specific needs and potentials of the area they manage, so their involvement ensures that solutions are adapted to real challenges and that measures are consistently implemented on the ground. The scientific sector brings knowledge, innovations and technologies that enable the sustainable use of resources and the monitoring of the state of the ecosystem, while the business community provides a framework for their practical application through business models and investments. When these actors are connected through joint projects and initiatives, a synergy is created that turns the blue economy into a real driver of development - the interlocutor of eKapija emphasizes.

- At the moment, the pressure on the coast and the sea is significant, which is reflected in excessive urbanization, expressed seasonality, the load on the communal infrastructure and the growth of pollution, so it is clear that mass tourism is not sustainable by itself. At the same time, Montenegro has the potential to transform tourism into a blue economy segment that contributes to the preservation of natural values - through stricter control of spatial planning and construction, investment in ecologically acceptable infrastructure and the development of forms of tourism with minimal negative impact, such as ecotourism, nautical tourism and activities related to the protection of resources. In this way, the extension of the season and a more even distribution of tourist traffic would be achieved. A very important role is also played by local communities, whose involvement and promotion of authentic products can create greater added value, new jobs and support small and medium-sized businesses, while preserving the cultural and natural identity of the coast. Therefore, tourism in Montenegro can become a sustainable part of the blue economy only through careful management of coastal and marine resources, which harmonizes economic benefits with the protection of nature and biodiversity - she says.