Action plan for a maritime strategy in the Atlantic area : delivering smart, sustainable and inclusive growth : communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions

The marine and maritime sectors that make up the 'blue economy' have the potential to provide 7 million jobs in Europe by 2020. These jobs will be found not only in emerging sectors, such as offshore renewable energy, but also through revitalising traditional maritime industries. The Atlantic area can make a significant contribution to this 'blue growth'. At the same time, the environmental and ecological stability of Europe's largest and most important ecosystem needs to be safeguarded for future generations.