Blue Cities Alliance
The Blue Cities Alliance is a pioneering coalition of innovative leaders in government, business, and conservation.
We are united by a shared vision: building a regenerative Blue Economy through the restoration and protection of coastal ecosystems and urban marine waterways.
Our Vision for the Future
The Blue Cities Alliance envisions a world where coastal cities are thriving hubs of innovation and regeneration. By integrating ecological restoration with urban planning, economic development, community engagement, and cultural celebration, we aim to create a future where humans and marine ecosystems coexist in harmony.
At the heart of the Blue Cities Alliance is our commitment to fostering collaboration between communities, policymakers, and experts to drive lasting change. We believe that cultural acceptance of issues accelerates policy change, and that shared values and collective action lead to transformative outcomes.
By bridging the gap between city leaders and the public, we empower individuals to take action for their coastal environments. As allies of existing city coalitions, we strengthen their efforts through collaboration and public engagement, scaling impactful, community-driven initiatives to create resilient cities and a regenerative blue economy where both people and ecosystems thrive.
“Now is the time to build an alliance of leaders for coastal Blue Cities — to learn from scientists and innovators, and engage everyone.”
—Alexandra Cousteau
Coastal cities are on the frontlines of climate change, confronting rising sea levels, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
They also hold the key to global solutions. With over 40% of the population near coastlines, their potential to lead marine restoration is immense.
The Blue Cities Alliance leverages this potential by:
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Equipping Cities
Amassing tools and knowledge to design and implement scalable restoration projects.
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Encouraging Collaboration
Bringing together sectors to ensure sustainable, impactful solutions.
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Inspiring Communities
Helping people reconnect with and care for their urban marine environments.
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Celebrating Cultures
Ensuring local traditions remain central to each community’s transformation.
Why Blue Cities Matter
Blue Cities face common climate challenges.
570 cities will be affected by sea level rise by 2050, affecting 3 billion people.
The fundamental climate challenges our coastal cites face are no longer local — they are global and shared.
With the COVID-19 pandemic, we learned that human problems on a global scale are only solved through international scientific collaboration.
Venice, Italy, 2019
Adam Sébire / Climate Visuals
Jatrapur Union, Bangladesh
Muhammad Amdad Hossain / Climate Visuals
Blue Cities concentrate our culture, commerce, and capital.
Most global megacities are coastal, with over half of the world’s population living in coastal areas.
Our coastal areas and oceans are crucial economic generators, producing an estimated $1.5 trillion annually.
Coastal and marine tourism represents at least 50% of a global industry worth $9.5 trillion that employs 1 in 11 people.
Healthy coastal ecosystems have huge economic impact.
“There’s good news, though: investing in ocean sustainability is worth the cost: every $1 in key ocean actions can generate $5 in economic, health, and environmental benefits.” —Fast Company
The business case for a regenerative Blue economy is clear. By investing in coastal restoration, you are improving people’s lives and livelihoods, providing financial gains, and leading for future generations.
Goals for economic growth (SDG 8) and reducing poverty (SDG 1) are directly linked to restoring life below water (SDG 14) and immediate climate action (SDG 13).
Leaders of our Blue Cities can lead the world.
Blue Cities Alliance will empower innovative business leaders to reach the full potential of your commitments, accelerate progress, and connect with a global network of champions working towards future-proofing our coastlines.
Collaborating with Other Alliances
We recognize that there are other city alliances around the world working tirelessly to address environmental challenges. The Blue Cities Alliance looks forward to collaborating with these organizations, sharing resources, and amplifying their efforts to create a unified and impactful movement for coastal and urban marine restoration.
We are just getting started. Join us!
Together, we can create a blueprint for a sustainable and prosperous future for our cities and oceans.
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Government Leaders
Collaborate with like-minded policymakers to implement effective marine conservation strategies.
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Business Leaders
Partner with us to drive innovation and promote sustainable economic practices.
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Scientists & Researchers
Contribute data, insights, and breakthroughs to help shape evidence-based solutions.
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Community Members
Take part in events, volunteer opportunities, and education to make a difference in your local coastal environment.
