WINBLUE is an EU-funded project aimed at tackling gender imbalance in blue careers and facilitating women’s participation in operational and decision-making positions within the blue economy sector.
Project Overview
- Full Name: Women in the Blue Economy WINBLUE
- Funding: European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF)
- Budget: €1,388,797 (EU contribution: €1,249,891, 90% of the overall budget)
- Duration: May 1, 2023 – July 31, 2025
- Coordinator: Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), Italy
Key Objectives
WINBLUE concentrates on five key sectors related to the conservation and sustainable use of aquatic resources:
- Circular blue bioeconomy and biotechnology
- Aquaculture and fisheries
- Offshore renewable energy
- Sustainable coastal tourism
- Cutting-edge enabling technology for marine ecosystem protection
These sectors represent areas where increased female participation could drive significant advancements and sustainable practices.
The project’s ambitious aims include:
- Increasing the participation and representation of women across blue economy sectors
- Enhancing knowledge and collecting data on women’s contributions to mainstream gender equality
- Addressing gender stereotypes and biases while promoting equal pay and better work conditions
- Fostering women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, and involvement in governance
These objectives are designed to create a more inclusive and equitable blue economy that leverages the full potential of its workforce.
Implementation Strategies
WINBLUE employs a multi-faceted approach to achieve its objectives:
- Developing and disseminating best practices and training services tailored to women’s needs in the blue economy
- Collecting and publishing comprehensive data on gender equality and good practices across sectors
- Implementing co-creation workshops and Gender Equality Plans to drive institutional change
- Promoting upskilling, coaching, and entrepreneurial practices specifically designed for women in maritime industries
- Providing replicable solutions and promoting mutual learning across sectors and countries
These strategies are designed to create lasting change at both individual and institutional levels.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
WINBLUE emphasises collaboration and knowledge sharing through its online community. This platform facilitates the exchange of ideas, best practices, and experiences among stakeholders across the blue economy. The project also works in tandem with the WINBIG project, ensuring a coordinated approach to addressing gender equality in the blue economy across Europe.
By addressing gender disparities comprehensively, WINBLUE aims to create a more dynamic, innovative, and sustainable blue economy. The project is expected to lead to increased female participation across maritime sectors, more inclusive decision-making processes, and ultimately, a more resilient and equitable blue economy.
Contact Information
For more information about the WINBLUE project:
- Website: https://winblue-project.eu/
- Email: info
winblue-project [dot] eu (info[at]winblue-project[dot]eu) - Join WINBLUE Community HERE
WINBLUE represents a comprehensive and innovative approach to addressing gender disparities in the blue economy. By fostering women’s empowerment across multiple maritime sectors, the project aims to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future for Europe’s blue economy.