SBEP at a Glance
Developed in partnership with ECO Canada
The Sustainable Blue Economy Professional (SBEP) designation recognizes individuals who demonstrate professional expertise, ethical practice, and a strong commitment to sustainable ocean and coastal work.
SBEP offers a clear and credible way to validate experience and professionalism across the global blue economy.
Professional Certification Pathways for SBEP
The SBEP certification pathways are designed to recognize professionals at different stages of their blue economy careers. Each pathway reflects a distinct level of experience and specialization, ensuring clear progression and meaningful recognition across the sector.
Sustainable Blue Economy Professional in Training
- Less than 5 years of experience in the blue economy
- Designed for recent graduates, early-career professionals, and new entrants
- A starting point to build recognized credentials
Sustainable Blue Economy Professional
- 5+ years of general blue economy experience
- Experience across multiple roles or ocean sectors
- Ideal for mid- to late-career professionals with diverse backgrounds
Sustainable Blue Economy Professional Specialized
- 5+ years of specialized blue economy experience
- Choose from 8 specialization areas
- Designed for experienced professionals with deep expertise
The Value of a Certified Community
SBEP is more than a credential, it’s a professional community.
Certified members share common standards and ethics, building trust with employers, regulators, and the public. The community also supports learning, mentorship, and continued professional growth.
Together, this strengthens the recognition and credibility of global, sustainable, blue economy professions.
Built on Recognized Standards
Built in collaboration.
SBEP is grounded in internationally aligned Blue National Occupancy Standards (BNOS) developed in collaboration with industry experts. This foundation ensures that SBEP is not subjective, but based on clear, industry-informed benchmarks.
Rigor & Accountability
SBEP is a professional designation, not a one-time certificate.
Our standard includes:
- Defined eligibility and experience requirements
- Assessment against established standards
- A code of professional ethics and conduct
- Ongoing professional development to maintain status
- Expert-led approvals board
- Yearly review of standards and requirements
This ensures the designation remains current, credible, and meaningful over time.
Create an Account & Check Your Eligibility
Use the SBEP application portal to see what pathway you are eligible for.