Bridging the gaps for a thriving Black Sea Blue Economy: insights from a multi-sectoral forum of Turkish stakeholders

The Black Sea ecosystem faces significant challenges due to climate change and human activities. Despite this, the opportunities and potential of its Blue Economy and the role of Turkish stakeholders in the key sectors have not been well documented. To define the needs of the Black Sea’s Blue Economy and outline existing problems, a workshop entitled “Engaging Stakeholders: Trabzon Multi-Actor Forum” was held in Trabzon (Türkiye) in November 2022. Stakeholders from the research sector, academia, civil society, industry, business, competent authorities, and government shared their thoughts on various sectors of the Blue Economy, covering 17 areas. They discussed political, environmental, social, technical, legal, and economic aspects, revealing opportunities, challenges, and areas where more research is needed. This meeting provided valuable insights, indicating that efficient collaboration with stakeholders could lead to effective solutions and strategies, helping to improve the Blue Economy in the Black Sea region.

1 Introduction

The Black Sea is a semi-enclosed basin with unique hydrological and environmental conditions, characterized by stratified water layers that restrict oxygen circulation, resulting in anoxic conditions below 200 metres (Murray et al., 1989; Bakan and Büyükgüngör, 2000; Rudneva and Petzold-Bradley, 2001; Sezgin et al., 2017; Radulescu, 2023). This makes the basin highly susceptible to external stressors such as nutrient inflows and pollution, which intensify eutrophication and create hypoxic zones (Sezgin et al., 2017; Hidalgo et al., 2018; Vasilica et al., 2023). Significant river systems, including the Danube, Dniester, and Dnieper, further influence its hydrology by transporting both nutrients and contaminants into the sea (Bakan and Büyükgüngör, 2000; Sezgin et al., 2017; Alkan, 2019).

The region faces numerous environmental challenges, including overfishing, habitat degradation, marine litter, and climate change impacts, distinguishing the Black Sea Blue Economy from other regions (Oguz et al., 2012; Oral, 2013). Despite these obstacles, the Black Sea holds significant potential for sustainable Blue Economy growth, particularly in sectors such as marine aquaculture, offshore renewable energy (wind, wave, and solar), sustainable tourism, maritime transport, and multi-use platforms (Schultz-Zehden et al., 2018; Melikidze et al., 2019; Bennett et al., 2021; Martínez-Vázquez et al., 2021). The basin’s strategic location as a bridge between Europe and Asia enhances its trade and economic opportunities (Aydin, 2005; Armonaite, 2020). However, realizing this potential hinges on overcoming basin-specific challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, uneven capacities among coastal nations, and geopolitical tensions while fostering sustainable development through ecological preservation and stakeholder collaboration (Oguz et al., 2012; Hidalgo et al., 2018; Afanasyev et al., 2020; Armonaite, 2020; Vasilica et al., 2023).

The EU’s EMODnet Black Sea Checkpoint project identified 11 key challenges relevant to advancing the Blue Economy, such as sustainable development of offshore industries, fisheries management, eutrophication, and climate change impacts (Palasov et al., 2019). It also highlighted the importance of emergency response to oil spills and biodiversity preservation through Marine Protected Areas (Martín Míguez et al., 2019). Platforms like EMODnet and Copernicus provide accessible, high-quality marine observation data that support integrated approaches to balancing economic and environmental priorities (Calewaert et al., 2016; EMODnet, 2024).

The Turkish coastline of the Black Sea plays a pivotal role in the region’s Blue Economy, supporting diverse activities such as small-scale fisheries, aquaculture (notably trout farming), maritime transport, coastal tourism, and renewable energy projects (Candan et al., 2007; Karamushka, 2009; Oguz et al., 2012; Afanasyev et al., 2020; Seyhan et al., 2022). Coastal tourism, driven by the area’s natural and cultural assets, significantly contributes to the local economy (DOKA, 2023). However, like other parts of the Black Sea, this region faces challenges, including fragmented governance frameworks, underdeveloped offshore energy infrastructure, overexploitation of fish stocks, pollution from land-based activities, and limited cross-sectoral collaboration (Candan et al., 2007; Afanasyev et al., 2020; Massa et al., 2021; Dürrani et al., 2022; Dürrani et al., 2024). Addressing these issues offers an opportunity for Turkish stakeholders to align with EU sustainability goals and drive progress through cross-border initiatives (Açıkmeşe, 2012; Yazgan, 2017; Council of the European Union, 2024). Efforts to enhance collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and private sector actors can drive innovation in renewable energy, aquaculture, and other sectors, fostering sustainable growth in the Black Sea’s Blue Economy (Hoerterer et al., 2020; Aivaz et al., 2021).

This workshop, titled “Engaging Stakeholders: Trabzon Multi-Actor Forum” was organized with the aim of bringing together local stakeholders from various sectors to engage in in-depth discussions on the diverse opportunities and challenges associated with the Blue Economy in the Black Sea region. The primary objective was to identify key sectors within the framework of the Blue Economy, while the second involved scrutinizing the various barriers that currently hinder its development. Additionally, the workshop addressed gaps in collaboration and understanding across sectors, exploring strategies to bridge these divides, with particular emphasis on incorporating the perspectives of Turkish stakeholders and highlighting their critical role in advancing the region’s Blue Economy.

2 Materials and methods

The workshop was designed to promote in-depth dialogue and was deliberately restricted to 17 carefully selected participants to ensure fruitful discussion and avoid an impersonal mass event (Figure 1). These participants represented a broad spectrum of sectors crucial to the Blue Economy, including industry and business (i.e., shipbuilding, marine aquaculture, and tourism), governmental and policymaking bodies (i.e., focusing on fisheries research and coastal safety), civil society, non-governmental organizations, and professional associations (i.e., covering fisheries cooperatives, environmental and agricultural engineering, and marine environment protection), as well as the research and academic community (i.e., fisheries, aquaculture, marine sciences, and biology).

Figure 1

Figure 1. Illustrates the distribution of stakeholder groups.

2.1 First session

The first interactive session provided stakeholders with three weighted votes, scored as 1, 2, and 3, to allocate among three of the 17 Blue Economy sectors to assess their importance and the immediate need for action (Figure 2).

Figure 2

Figure 2. A stakeholder to allocate votes to any three of the 17 Blue Economy sectors to assess their importance and immediate need for action.

2.2 Second session

The second interactive session focused on the top eight sectors that received the most votes. Stakeholders were then asked to provide feedback on sticky notes addressing the political, environmental, social, technical, legal, and economic challenges relevant to these sectors (Figure 3). The feedback was then anonymously shared with the panel for further discussion to identify and validate the needs and gaps.

Figure 3

Figure 3. A stakeholder providing feedback on sticky notes.

2.3 Summarization by authors

The authors gathered and refined the feedback from the workshop into a summary that outlined key needs in the Blue Economy. They clearly identified what stakeholders needed and where there were shortfalls in meeting these needs. This summary helps in understanding the sector better, guiding focused actions, and planning to bridge these gaps, aligning with Blue Economy’s broader objectives.

3 Results

Out of the 17 Blue Economy sectors, three of the sectors, viz., Marine construction, dredging, and offshore wind energy, did not receive any vote from the stakeholders (Figure 4A). The highest score was received for capture fisheries, with 26 scores, and marine R&D, with 19, followed by offshore oil/gas, with 12 scores (Figure 4B).

Figure 4

Figure 4. (A) Scores assigned by stakeholders to various Blue Economy sectors in the Black Sea based on prioritization. (B) Illustration of the prioritization of Blue Economy sectors in the Black Sea based on the highest scores received.

3.1 Political

The Blue Economy faces numerous challenges and opportunities that are often influenced by political factors (Table 1). In the capture fisheries industry, political pressures and deficits in effective governance, enforcement, and long-term planning often prioritize short-term gains over scientific advice, suggesting the need for science-based decision-making by organizations, legislators, and academia rather than politicians. This includes the implementation of fishing bans and laws grounded in scientific research, comprehensive policies, regular inspections, and proper training. For marine research and development (R&D), the development of legal and policy frameworks in collaboration with experts is crucial to avoiding political interference, with an emphasis on increased state focus and funding. The offshore oil and gas sector requires strengthening political frameworks and continuous research support to enhance the Black Sea region’s influence and economic growth. The shipbuilding industry lacks adequate political support, which requires principled policies and targeted support. The marine aquaculture and ocean renewable energy sectors also suffer from insufficient political support, highlighting the need for principled policies and efficient collaboration for sustainable development. Marine transport highlights the need for political support and the resolution of geopolitical challenges for effective maritime transport. High-tech marine services, such as offshore renewable energy projects like wind farms, smart shipping technologies, autonomous underwater vehicles for marine research, and advanced aquaculture systems, require unbiased political support and the development of sustainable technologies. Across these sectors, the common thread is the need for depoliticizing management, enhancing political infrastructure for support, and prioritizing sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of the Blue Economy.

Table 1

Table 1. Multi-sectoral stakeholder perspectives on the political, environmental, social, technical, legal, and economic challenges in the Blue Economy of the Black Sea.

3.2 Environmental

The environmental dimension of the Blue Economy sector underscores the pressing need for sustainable practices and stringent regulations across various industries to mitigate environmental degradation (Table 1). In capture fisheries, challenges such as limited awareness, pollution, and climate change lead to unsustainable practices, ecosystem damage, reduced fish stocks, and disrupted marine life cycles, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and sustainable fishing practices. Marine research and development are essential for addressing marine pollution and fostering ecosystem health, which is defined as the ability of ecosystems to maintain their structure, function, and resilience under stress by advancing innovative technologies, conducting comprehensive studies, and implementing restoration efforts to mitigate pollution, preserve biodiversity, and sustain ecological processes. The offshore oil and gas industry must carefully evaluate environmental impacts and adopt innovative strategies to mitigate pollution risks. The shipbuilding industry is urged to adopt environmentally friendly practices and materials to minimize its ecological footprint. Marine aquaculture requires scientific site selection and the use of diversified protein sources in commercial fish feed, such as plant-based proteins, insect meals, and sustainably harvested marine ingredients, to reduce environmental impacts, highlighting the importance of education and stringent regulations. Ocean renewable energy advocates for cautious implementation of projects to harness environmental benefits without causing harm, prioritizing environmentally friendly technologies. Marine transport and high-tech marine services emphasize the urgent need to adopt green management practices, such as energy-efficient technologies and waste reduction strategies, while fostering greater environmental awareness among stakeholders. These efforts must be supported by robust regulatory frameworks to ensure sustainable operations and minimize pollution. This highlights the shared recognition across sectors of the Blue Economy that achieving environmental responsibility is essential for long-term economic and ecological sustainability.

3.3 Social

The social aspects of the Blue Economy sector highlight the significant impact of various industries on employment, social welfare, and community engagement (Table 1). In the capture fisheries sector, job opportunities contribute to regional development but must be balanced with the challenge of overfishing, especially in the Black Sea, while addressing tensions between artisanal and industrial fisheries. Marine R&D faces public apathy, yet their social benefits and potential for community engagement remain underappreciated, pointing to the need for better communication of their value. The offshore oil and gas industry is expected to transform social life positively through economic contributions, necessitating increased public awareness of the benefits of offshore activities. The shipbuilding sector contributes to social status, offers job opportunities, and requires more qualified staff. Marine aquaculture provides social benefits and employment, though there’s a need to enhance public awareness about its environmental impacts and products. Ocean renewable energy highlights the need to increase social and environmental awareness, conduct thorough assessments of its social impacts, and educate the public on the benefits and importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources. Marine transport highlights the need for increased research on its social impacts, the crucial role of ports in supporting livelihoods and mobility and the significant contributions of the sector to social life and welfare. Across these sectors, the emphasis on education, awareness, and communication underscores the need to address societal misunderstandings and promote sustainable practices for the betterment of community welfare and environmental stewardship.

3.4 Technical

The technical challenges and innovations in the Blue Economy sector emphasize the critical balance between advancing technology and ensuring sustainability (Table 1). In capture fisheries, especially in the unique ecosystem of the Black Sea, there is an urgent need to phase out harmful fishing technologies, such as bottom trawling and overfishing practices, in favor of advanced, sustainable methods like selective fishing gear and real-time monitoring systems. These technologies are designed to reduce bycatch, protect habitats, and ensure the long-term health of fish stocks. The unmonitored use of advanced fishing technologies has led to overfishing, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and the careful introduction of digital innovations to maintain fish populations. Marine research and development in Türkiye are hindered by a technological gap and insufficient investment, requiring urgent support and access to advanced tools for effective ecosystem monitoring and marine studies. The offshore oil and gas sector sees new technologies as pivotal for enhancing exploration efficiency, with sustainability as a crucial goal. In shipbuilding, adoption of the latest technologies, workforce training, and innovations such as electric motors are essential for sector growth and reducing fossil fuel dependency. Marine aquaculture benefits from technologies that reduce early-stage losses in fish and shellfish production, whereas ocean renewable energy projects require the integration of developing technologies and public investment to efficiently harness marine resources. Emerging technologies in marine transport, such as automated vessels, fuel-efficient propulsion systems, and digital navigation tools, improve efficiency and competitiveness, requiring ongoing monitoring and innovation. High-tech marine services focus on leveraging technologies like remote sensing, subsea robotics, and real-time data transmission systems for marine exploration and deep-sea data collection, underscoring the sector-wide need for technological advancement while maintaining environmental and ecological integrity.

3.5 Legal

The legal challenges and necessities within the Blue Economy sector highlight the comprehensive need for the establishment, re-evaluation, and rigorous enforcement of laws and regulations across various domains to ensure sustainability and compliance (Table 1). In capture fisheries, the call for laws and quotas based on thorough research, stronger control mechanisms, and resolution of issues stemming from inadequate enforcement and the influence of politics over science is evident. This highlights the need for economic sustainability through legal adherence and consistent implementation of comprehensive legal frameworks. Marine R&D suffers from outdated legal frameworks that necessitate updates and strict auditing to keep pace with technological advances. Offshore oil and gas exploration requires legal readiness at both national and international levels, and the shipbuilding industry could significantly benefit from enhanced legal regulations and the application of open sea vessel laws to the Black Sea. Legal frameworks tailored specifically for the aquaculture sector are needed, along with regulations addressing overfishing, ghost nets, and the use of undersized fish in feed production. The emerging ocean renewable energy sector requires new legal regulations and a review of existing legislation to meet its specific needs. Marine transport highlights the importance of enforcing deterrent penalties and sanctions, adhering to national and international laws and introducing new regulations to support sector growth. High-tech marine services also face a critical need for prioritized legal arrangements and the preparation of legal infrastructure to support technological advancements, underscoring the sector-wide imperative for legal innovation and enforcement to foster responsible and sustainable growth in the Blue Economy.

3.6 Economics

The economic aspects of the Blue Economy sector underscore the critical importance of sustainable practices, financial investments, and strategic development across various industries to foster economic growth and national development (Table 1). In capture fisheries, the transition to electrical energy, through the adoption of electric-powered vessels and equipment to replace or supplement fossil fuels, along with the development of region-specific vessel standards and the need for enhanced economic strategies, are highlighted due to the sector’s significant contribution to the national economy and local communities. Marine R&D faces economic challenges due to funding and resource shortages, emphasizing the necessity for increased investment and strategic research with cost-benefit analyses. Offshore oil and gas exploration has emerged as a vital component of economic prosperity with the potential to reduce import dependency and contribute significantly to national revenues. Aquaculture is recognized for its substantial economic benefits and potential to surpass traditional exports although economic pressures sometimes lead to procedural non-compliance. The sector’s growth is crucial for the national economy, especially through the diversification and value enhancement of sea products. Ocean renewable energy requires state support and increased economic support to exploit its potential for economic growth, despite the high costs associated with energy generation from currents and waves. Maritime transport, a key driver of economic prosperity, benefits from investments in transport and port development, with maritime tourism offering additional economic growth opportunities. High-tech marine services highlight the potential for economical transportation solutions and the positive impact of emerging technologies on the national economy, necessitating increased budget allocation and investment for sector advancement. Collectively, these sectors reveal the intricate interplay between economic development, sustainability, and the need for targeted investment and policies to ensure the Blue Economy’s long-term viability and contribution to economic prosperity.

4 Discussions

This study is the first comprehensive multi-sectoral stakeholder forum in the Turkish Black Sea region, prioritizing capture fisheries within the Blue Economy framework (Figure 4B). The forum explored barriers to development and highlighted gaps in cross-sectoral collaboration and understanding, reflecting challenges identified in other studies (Elegbede et al., 2023). The prioritization of capture fisheries underscores their vital role in Türkiye’s Blue Economy, with the Black Sea contributing 73% of the nation’s total catch fisheries production TÜİK (2023). Of this, 71% comprises marine fish, and 29% consists of other marine products (Figure 5).

Figure 5

Figure 5. Wild-caught fishing volume in Turkish seas (tons) (TÜİK, 2023).

4.1 Fisheries and aquaculture: a key sector

The capture fisheries sector faces multifaceted challenges, including overfishing, environmental changes (e.g., temperature fluctuations and pollution), and regulatory measures aimed at sustainability and fish stock protection. These issues align with EMODnet Black Sea Checkpoints challenges, which emphasize sustainable fisheries management, the impacts of eutrophication, riverine inputs, and climate change on fisheries’ resilience and productivity (Calewaert et al., 2016; Martín Míguez et al., 2019; Palasov et al., 2019; EMODnet, 2024). The decline in catches from 2019 to 2022 (Figure 5) highlights the urgent need for integrated management approaches to balance economic and ecological priorities.

Small-scale fisheries in the Black Sea directly support approximately 26,800 individuals, including 6,700 crew members operating 3,372 active boats, making significant contributions to livelihoods along Türkiye’s coast (Dağtekin et al., 2021; Khan and Seyhan, 2022). Similarly, aquaculture, ranked sixth in this study, plays a complementary role in food production and employment, contributing 314,408 tons of annual production during 2020–2021 and employing 2,828 people (FAO, 2023). Despite its potential, the fisheries sector faces political, environmental, social, technical, legal, and economic challenges, necessitating strengthened collaboration, coherent governance structures, and policies aligned with scientific research (Crona et al., 2019; Salinas-Zavala et al., 2022; Elegbede et al., 2023).

4.2 Marine pollution and emergency management

Marine pollution, particularly oil spills, has emerged as a critical concern (Zhang et al., 2019; Baghdady and Abdelsalam, 2024; Eryigit and Gungor, 2025). Heavy marine traffic and existing gas pipelines increase the risk of oil spills, posing significant threats to ecosystems and the Blue Economy (Akkaya Bas et al., 2017; Eryigit and Gungor, 2025). Robust emergency management frameworks, enhanced monitoring systems, and regional cooperation are essential to mitigate risks and address pollution effectively (Palasov et al., 2019; EMODnet, 2024). Past incidents underscore the need for proactive strategies to safeguard the Black Sea’s marine environment and economic potential (Öztürk et al., 1997; Chen et al., 2019).

4.3 Shipbuilding and its environmental impacts

Türkiye’s shipbuilding sector, with ~ 90 shipyards – 51 of them along the Black Sea coast – plays a significant role in the Blue Economy (KPMG, 2022). Commercial ships accounted for 62.7% of total production in 2021, while non-commercial vessels constituted 37.3% (KPMG, 2022). This sector generates substantial revenue, with new ship construction contributing $1.5 billion USD annually and ship repair and maintenance adding $1 billion USD General Directorate of Exports (2016). Turkish-built ships are exported to markets like Norway, Malta, Iceland, and Canada, reinforcing the sector’s global significance. In addition to its economic contributions, as endorsed by this study, various significant environmental risks associated with shipbuilding activities are also identified. Conventional methods such as welding, painting, blasting, and fiberglass work release harmful gases, discharge toxic chemicals into wastewater, generate hazardous waste, and contribute to noise pollution (Papaioannou, 2003; Rahman and Karim, 2015; Dragičević et al., 2022). Addressing these risks requires adopting sustainable practices, transitioning to environmentally friendly materials, and implementing green management systems. Modernizing shipyards and incorporating advanced technologies are critical for enhancing competitiveness and minimizing ecological impacts in this sector.

4.4 Gaps in marine research and development

The forum identified critical gaps in marine research and development, including limited political support, insufficient public engagement, restricted access to technology and inadequate funding. These gaps highlight a disconnect between the essential requirements of marine research and the support it receives. Bridging these gaps through increased collaboration, funding, and public awareness is vital for advancing sustainable management of marine ecosystems (Van Hoof et al., 2019; Wisz et al., 2020; Kelly et al., 2022; Pace et al., 2023). This study also demonstrated that offshore oil and gas exploration requires integrated efforts to adopt sustainable practices, manage environmental impacts, and attract strategic investments. Enhanced R&D can support these goals by developing innovative solutions and addressing gaps in public education and advanced technologies.

5 Conclusions

The Blue Economy of the Black Sea faces complex challenges, including sustainable fisheries management, marine pollution, and biodiversity preservation. Addressing these requires integrating scientific research with policymaking, strengthening governance frameworks, and investing in sustainable technologies and practices. Overcoming outdated infrastructure and economic barriers, such as insufficient funding, is equally vital.

A comprehensive, long-term strategy prioritizing sustainability, collaboration, and innovation is essential. Shifting from short-term political goals to inclusive approaches based on strong environmental regulations, public education, and regional cooperation will unlock the region’s economic potential while protecting its biodiversity. Collective action is crucial to ensuring the resilience and sustainable future of the Black Sea.

Data availability statement

The original contributions presented in the study are included in the article. Further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding authors.

Ethics statement

Ethical approval was not required for the studies involving humans in accordance with the local legislation and institutional requirements. The participants provided their written informed consent to participate in this study.

Author contributions

KS: Conceptualization, Data curation, Funding acquisition, Project administration, Supervision, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. ÖD: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. LP: Conceptualization, Methodology, Visualization, Writing – original draft. EA: Conceptualization, Methodology, Writing – original draft. ŞA: Conceptualization, Data curation, Investigation, Methodology, Writing – original draft. KÖ: Conceptualization, Data curation, Investigation, Methodology, Writing – original draft. HA: Data curation, Methodology, Writing – original draft. EK: Data curation, Methodology, Writing – original draft. RM: Data curation, Methodology, Writing – original draft. PK: Conceptualization, Methodology, Visualization, Writing – original draft. AS: Conceptualization, Funding acquisition, Project administration, Supervision, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing.

Funding

The author(s) declare financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. This research was supported by the European Union Research (EU HORIZON, 2020) Project called “DOORS, no:101000518” (Developing Optimal and Research Support for the Black Sea).

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

References

Açıkmeşe S. A. (2012). The EU’s black sea policies: any hopes for success? Euxeinos Online J. Center Govern. Culture Europe 6, 17–23.

Google Scholar

Afanasyev A., Chantzi G., Hajiyev S., Kalognomos S., Sdoukopoulos L. (2020). Black Sea Synergy: The way forward. Available online at: https://icbss.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/1977_original.pdf (Accessed January 5, 2025).

Google Scholar

Aivaz K.-A., Stan M.-I., Vintilă D.-F. (2021). Why should fisheries and agriculture be considered priority domains for maritime spatial planning in the black sea? A stakeholder perspective. Ovidius Univ. Annals Econ. Sci. Ser. 21, 12–20.

Google Scholar

Akkaya Bas A., Christiansen F., Amaha Öztürk A., Öztürk B., Mcintosh C. (2017). The effects of marine traffic on the behaviour of Black Sea harbour porpoises (Phocoena relicta) within the Istanbul Strait, Turkey. PloS One 12, e0172970. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172970

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Alkan N., Terzi Y., Khan U., Bascinar N., Seyhan K. (2019). Evaluation of seasonal variations in surface water quality of the Caglayan, Firtina and Ikizdere rivers from Rize, Turkey. Fresenius Environ. Bull. 28, 9679–9688.

Google Scholar

Achimescu C., Chiricioiu V., Oltean I. (2021). “Challenges to black sea governance. regional disputes, global consequences? Romanian Journal of International Law. 26, 35–61.

Google Scholar

Aydin M. (2005). Europe’s new region: The Black Sea in the wider Europe neighbourhood. Southeast Eur. Black Sea Stud. 5, 257–283. doi: 10.1080/14683850500122943

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Baghdady S. M., Abdelsalam A. A. (2024). Ten years of oil pollution detection in the Eastern Mediterranean shipping lanes opposite the Egyptian coast using remote sensing techniques. Sci. Rep. 14, 18057. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-67983-x

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Bakan G., Büyükgüngör H. (2000). The black sea. Mar. pollut. Bull. 41, 24–43. doi: 10.1016/S0025-326X(00)00100-4

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Bennett N. J., Blythe J., White C. S., Campero C. (2021). Blue growth and blue justice: Ten risks and solutions for the ocean economy. Mar. Policy 125, 104387. doi: 10.1016/j.marpol.2020.104387

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Calewaert J.-B., Weaver P., Gunn V., Gorringe P., Novellino A. (2016). “The European Marine Data and Observation Network (EMODnet): Your Gateway to European Marine and Coastal Data,” in Quantitative Monitoring of the Underwater Environment: Results of the International Marine Science and Technology Event MOQESM´14 in Brest, France. Eds. Zerr B., Jaulin L., Creuze V., Debese N., Quidu I., Clement B., Billon-Coat A. (Springer International Publishing, Cham), 31–46.

Google Scholar

 Candan A., Karataş S., Küçüktaş H., Okumuş İ. (2007). Marine aquaculture in Turkey (İstanbul, Turkey: Turkish Research Foundation).

Google Scholar

Chen J., Zhang W., Wan Z., Li S., Huang T., Fei Y. (2019). Oil spills from global tankers: Status review and future governance. J. Cleaner Product. 227, 20–32. doi: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.04.020

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Council of the European Union (2024). Joint staff working document: Black Sea Synergy: 4th review of a regional cooperation initiative – period 2019–2023. Available online at: https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-11900-2024-INIT/en/pdf (Accessed January 5, 2025).

Google Scholar

Crona B., Käll S., Van Holt T. (2019). Fishery Improvement Projects as a governance tool for fisheries sustainability: A global comparative analysis. PloS One 14, e0223054. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223054

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Dağtekin M., Misir D. S., Şen İ., Altuntaş C., Misir G. B., Çankaya A. (2021). Small-scale fisheries in the southern Black Sea: Which factors affect net profit? Acta Ichthyol. Piscatoria 51, 145–152. doi: 10.3897/aiep.51.62792

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

DOKA (2023).Blue economy of Turkey – 4BIZ country report: Current situation in the field of fisheries and aquaculture, coastal and maritime tourism, and maritime transport. Available online at: https://maritimeUkraine.com/en/25-03-2023/ (Accessed January 5, 2025).

Google Scholar

Dragičević V., Levak M., Turk A., Lorencin I. (2022). Ship production processes air emissions analysis. Pomorstvo 36, 164–171. doi: 10.31217/p.36.1.19

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Dürrani Ö., Bal H., Battal Z. S., Seyhan K. (2022). Using otolith and body shape to discriminate between stocks of european anchovy (Engraulidae: Engraulis encrasicolus) from the aegean, marmara and black seas. J. Fish Biol. 101, 1452–1465. doi: 10.1111/jfb.15216

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Dürrani Ö., Seyhan K. (2024). Stock identification of the mediterranean horse mackerel (Carangidae: Trachurus mediterraneus) in the marmara and black seas using body and otolith shape analyses. Estuarine Coast. Shelf Sci. 299, 108687. doi: 10.1016/j.ecss.2024.108687

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Elegbede I. O., Fakoya K. A., Adewolu M. A., JoLaosho T. L., Adebayo J. A., Oshodi E., et al. (2023). Understanding the social–ecological systems of non-state seafood sustainability scheme in the blue economy. Environ. Dev. Sustainabil. doi: 10.1007/s10668-023-04004-3

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

EMODnet (2024). European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet). Available online at: https://emodnet.ec.europa.eu/en/black-sea-1 (Accessed January 5, 2025).

Google Scholar

Eryigit E. N., Gungor Y. (2025). Oil spill kills dozens of dolphins on Russian Black Sea coast: Animal rescue group (Anadolu Agency). Available at: https://www.aa.com.tr/en/energy/oil/oil-spill-kills-dozens-of-dolphins-on-Russian-black-sea-coast-animal-rescue-group/46666.

Google Scholar

EU HORIZON. (2020). Available online at: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101000518/results

Google Scholar

FAO (2023). The State of Mediterranean and Black Sea Fisheries 2023 – Special edition (Rome: General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean). doi: 10.4060/cc8888en

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

General Directorate of Exports (2016). Republic of Turkey - Ministry of Economy. Available online at: https://www.spcr.cz/images/kdvorakova/shipbuilding_industry_report.pdf.

Google Scholar

Hidalgo M., Mihneva V., Vasconcellos M., Bernal M. (2018). Climate change impacts, vulnerabilities and adaptations: Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea marine fisheries. In Barange M., Bahri T., Beveridge M.C.M., Cochrane K.L., Funge-Smith S., Poulain F., eds. Impacts of climate change on fisheries and aquaculture: synthesis of current knowledge, adaptation and mitigation options. FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Technical Paper No. 627. Rome, FAO.

Google Scholar

Hoerterer C., Schupp M. F., Benkens A., Nickiewicz D., Krause G., Buck B. H. (2020). Stakeholder perspectives on opportunities and challenges in achieving sustainable growth of the blue economy in a changing climate. Front. Mar. Sci. 6. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2019.00795

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Karamushka V. (2009). Socio-economic aspects of the Black Sea region (Commission on the Protection of the Black Sea Against Pollution). Available at: http://www.blacksea-commission.org/_socio-economy.asp.

Google Scholar

Khan U., Seyhan K. (2022). “Anchovies of the world,” in Anchovies: Ecological, economic and social evaluation. Ed. Seyhan K. (Türkiye: RİBİAD: Rize’li Bürokratlar, Yöneticiler ve İş İnsanları Derneği), 9–31.

Google Scholar

Kelly R., Foley P., Stephenson R. L., Hobday A. J., Pecl G. T., Boschetti F., et al. (2022). Foresighting future oceans: Considerations and opportunities. Mar. Policy 140, 105021. doi: 10.1016/j.marpol.2022.105021

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

KPMG (2022). Gemi Inşa Sektörel Bakış 2022. Available online at: https://kpmg.com/tr/tr/home/gorusler/2023/04/gemi-insa-sektorel-bakis-2022.html (Accessed 01/04/2024).

Google Scholar

Martínez-Vázquez R. M., Milán-García J., De Pablo Valenciano J. (2021). Challenges of the Blue Economy: evidence and research trends. Environ. Sci. Europe 33, 61. doi: 10.1186/s12302-021-00502-1

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Martín Míguez B., Novellino A., Vinci M., Claus S., Calewaert J.-B., Vallius H., et al. (2019). The European marine observation and data network (EMODnet): visions and roles of the gateway to marine data in Europe. Front. Mar. Sci. 6. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2019.00313

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Massa F., Aydın I., Fezzardi D., Akbulut B., Atanasoff A., Beken A. T., et al. (2021). Black Sea aquaculture: Legacy, challenges & future opportunities. Aquacult. Stud. 21. doi: 10.4194/2618-6381-v21_4_05

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Melikidze V., Chkhaidze V., Kobaidze S. (2019). Adoption of the Coastal Zone of the Black Sea in Georgia Based on the Principles of Blue Economy (Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University).

Google Scholar

Murray J. W., Jannasch H. W., Honjo S., Anderson R. F., Reeburgh W. S., Top Z., et al. (1989). Unexpected changes in the oxic/anoxic interface in the Black Sea. Nature 338, 411–413. doi: 10.1038/338411a0

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Oguz T., Akoglu E., Salihoglu B. (2012). Current state of overfishing and its regional differences in the Black Sea. Ocean Coast. Manage. 58, 47–56. doi: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2011.12.013

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Oral N. (2013). “Chapter II State of the Black Sea: The Making and Unmaking of a Sea,” in Regional Co-operation and Protection of the Marine Environment Under International Law, vol. 45-73. (Brill Nijhoff).

Google Scholar

Öztürk M., Özdemir F., Yücel E. (1997). An overview of the environmental issues in the Black Sea region. Scientif. Environ. Polit. Issues Circum-Caspian Region 213-226.

Google Scholar

Pace L. A., Saritas O., Deidun A. (2023). Exploring future research and innovation directions for a sustainable blue economy. Mar. Policy 148, 105433. doi: 10.1016/j.marpol.2022.105433

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Palasov A., Slabakova V., Blanc F., Kallos G., Raykov V., Lardner R., et al. (2019). “EMODnet black sea checkpoint products,” in EGU General Assembly Conference Abstracts, 3621.

Google Scholar

Papaioannou D. (2003). Environmental implications, related to the shipbuilding and ship repairing activity in Greece. Pomorski zbornik 41, 241–252.

Google Scholar

Radulescu V. (2023). Environmental conditions and the fish stocks situation in the black sea, between climate change, war, and pollution. Water 15, 1012. doi: 10.3390/w15061012

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Rahman A., Karim M. M. (2015). Green shipbuilding and recycling: Issues and challenges. Int. J. Environ. Sci. Dev. 6, 838. doi: 10.7763/IJESD.2015.V6.709

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Rudneva I., Petzold-Bradley E. (2001). “Environment and Security Challenges in the Black Sea Region,” in Responding to Environmental Conflicts: Implications for Theory and Practice. Eds. Petzold-Bradley E., Carius A., Vincze A. (Springer Netherlands, Dordrecht), 189–207.

Google Scholar

Salinas-Zavala C. A., Morales-Zárate M. V., Cisneros-Montemayor A. M., Bojórquez-Tapia L. A. (2022). Editorial: the approach to complex systems in fisheries. Front. Mar. Sci. 8. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2021.830225

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Sezgin M., Levent B., Ürkmez D., Arici E., Öztürk B. (2017). Turkish Mar. Res. Found. (TUDAV) Publ. No: 46 Isntabul Turkiye.

Google Scholar

Schultz-Zehden A., Lukic I., Ansong J. O., Altvater S., Bamlett R., Barbanti A., et al. (2018). Ocean Multi-Use Action Plan, MUSES project. Edinburgh, pp. 5–121. Available online at: https://medblueconomyplatform.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/file-library-062043c4815f5725986d.pdf (Accessed January 05 2025).

Google Scholar

Seyhan K., Dürrani Ö., Sahin A., Terzi Y. (2022). Catch composition of non-target species escaping dredge gear of rapana fisheries in the western coast of the black sea. Mar. Biol. Res. 18, 347–360. doi: 10.1080/17451000.2022.2126857

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

TÜİK (2023). Su Ürünleri Istatistikleri (Fisheries Statistics). Available online at: https://biruni.tuik.gov.tr/medas/?kn=97&locale=tr (Accessed 31.03.2024).

Google Scholar

Van Hoof L., Fabi G., Johansen V., Steenbergen J., Irigoien X., Smith S., et al. (2019). Food from the ocean; towards a research agenda for sustainable use of our oceans’ natural resources. Mar. Policy 105, 44–51. doi: 10.1016/j.marpol.2019.02.046

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Vasilica F.-A., Panaitescu M., Panaitescu F.-V., Scupi A.-A., Panaitescu V.-N. (2023). Assessing the vulnerability of marine ecosystems in the context of climate change (SPIE).

Google Scholar

Wisz M. S., Satterthwaite E. V., Fudge M., Fischer M., Polejack A., St. John M., et al. (2020). 100 opportunities for more inclusive ocean research: cross-disciplinary research questions for sustainable ocean governance and management. Front. Mar. Sci. 7. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2020.00576

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Yazgan H. (2017). Black sea synergy: success or failure for the European Union? Marmara Üniversitesi Siyasal Bilimler Dergisi 5, 83–94. doi: 10.14782/sbd.2017.57

Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Zhang B., Matchinski E. J., Chen B., Ye X., Jing L., Lee K. (2019). “Chapter 21 - Marine Oil Spills—Oil Pollution, Sources and Effects,” in World Seas: An Environmental Evaluation, 2nd ed. Ed. Sheppard C. (Academic Press), 391–406.

Google Scholar