RESEARCH

Blue National Occupational Standards

Canada has the longest coastline globally, is surrounded by three oceans, and could be a global leader in the sustainable blue economy (SBE). Despite this potential, Canada is behind many other nations in the share of GDP generated from ocean-related industries at 1 percent, compared to an average of 2–5 percent across member countries of the OECD. In Norway, a leader in the ocean sector, it is 25 percent.

Offshore Minerals and Resources

Economic activities related to the exploration and extraction of minerals and abiotic resources from offshore sources, including the operation and maintenance of equipment and services. Offshore minerals and resources includes all traditional oil and gas exploration in addition to seabed and ocean floor mining.

Ocean Technology

Economic activities related to the production of high-tech marine products including but not limited to sensor technology, remote sensing, subsea vehicles/robotics, autonomous systems, harsh ocean environment technology, marine simulation, or marine engineering to support the development of other subsectors; or the usage of marine resources to produce knowledge, goods, and services to support other industries.

Marine Transport, Ports and Shipping

Economic activities related to the transportation of freight and facilities and services incidental to shipping and handling of cargo.

Marine Renewables

Economic activities related to the production and generation of renewable energy using non-exhaustive natural forces, including but not limited to wind, wave, tidal, or osmatic energy.

Fisheries and Aquaculture

Economic activities related to the farming, harvesting, or catching of biotic marine life, including all activities related to processing, production, and preparation of seafood for consumption or feed. This definition includes all primary and secondary activities related to fisheries, aquaculture, seafood processing, and trade of biotic marine resources.`

Coastal and Marine Tourism

Economic activities of all indirect and direct facilities related to ocean tourism and leisure, including but not limited to cruises, marine sports, recreational fishing, aquariums, excursions to marine habitats, or services and accommodation located in a place near or adjoining the coast.