7 Shifts That Could Unlock Millions of Blue Jobs in the Ocean Economy
More than 50 million jobs could be added to the ocean economy — or nearly 40 million jobs could be lost — depending on whether countries invest in sustainable industries, worker training and healthy marine ecosystems. Published May 12 2026.
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A healthy ocean is critical to modern society. More than 3 billion people depend on fish for at least one-fifth of their animal protein intake, while the ocean also supports mental and physical health, inspires cultures and traditions, and offers climate solutions that could help close the global emissions gap.
What's more is the ocean of job opportunities it provides: at least 133 million formal jobs — in sectors like tourism, fisheries, shipping, offshore oil and gas, and renewable energy — and potentially over 100 million more if you count informal jobs like family-fishing operations. Combined, these contribute over $2.5 trillion annually in goods and services to the global economy.
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More than 50 million jobs could be added to the ocean economy — or nearly 40 million jobs could be lost — depending on whether countries invest in sustainable industries, worker training and healthy marine ecosystems. Published May 12 2026.
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