INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES FOR ATTRACTING ENVIRONMENTAL FINANCE TO THE AQUACULTURE SECTOR OF FRAGILE AND CONFLICT-AFFECTED STATES

Abstract

Around the world, there is evidence of growing investor interest in marine resources and the growing aquaculture sector. Over the past few decades, the global aquaculture industry has grown tremendously and has recently surpassed fishing as the world's primary mode of seafood production. The aquaculture sector also contributes to reducing the negative impacts of the fisheries sector on natural ecosystems and thus contributes to the restoration of biodiversity in coastal and aquatic ecosystems. As food security is a key issue for the governments of fragile and conflict-affected states, the development of the aquaculture sector can be a priority in the implementation of a post-conflict reconstruction strategy for the agricultural sector. The development and implementation of environmental financing mechanisms to support and stimulate the most sustainable use of natural ecosystems in post-conflict areas contributes to increasing the contribution of the aquaculture sector to the national and regional blue economy, as well as avoiding the depletion of natural resources for many years. The article aims to describe innovative strategies for financing the aquaculture sector based on the issuance of blue bonds, which can not only increase food supply, but also contribute to job creation and economic growth. To achieve this goal, the author gives a brief description of the aquaculture sector, which is currently the fastest growing agricultural sector. The article proposes and describes conceptual strategies for the implementation of programs for attracting environmental financing to projects for the restoration and development of the aquaculture sector in post-conflict territories. The author emphasizes that the development of the aquaculture sector is important for the post-conflict world order.