Washington Maritime Blue launches ambitious plan for economic growth, jobs, ocean health

Tuesday, January 8

Washington state’s diverse maritime sector establishes cluster organization, rallies around collaborative strategy to achieve decarbonization, global innovation hub, 21st Century workforce, growing working waterfronts.

SEATTLE, Wash. – Gov. Jay Inslee today joined his Maritime Innovation Advisory Council and a host of leading voices for the roll out of Washington Maritime Blue, a comprehensive plan setting the course for taking the industry to the highest level of global clean maritime leadership.

From innovative vessel design and electrification to clean technology in our ports; sustainable fishing practices to career-connected workforce development, Washington state’s $37+ billion maritime industry sector is a model for environmental performance and best practices.

Visit Washington Maritime Blue’s website.

Around the globe, maritime economies are addressing impacts to climate change and equality through innovation and entrepreneurship. The United Nations proclaimed 2021-2030 the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, and major global economic forums including the World Bank have declared a major paradigm shift that places science and knowledge at the center of a sustainable, ocean-based economy.

Washington is the first U.S. state to join with leading international maritime clusters, such as Norway and Singapore, in implementing a strategy for building the world’s “blue economy.” A confluence of factors positions the state well for the task.  Washington’s maritime industry is already a global leader in environmental performance and best practices. Exceptional strengths in IT and clean technology, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and military and defense bolster the maritime cluster. Coupled with top research institutions, collaborative education and workforce initiatives, and a culture of entrepreneurship supported by public and private investment, Washington is at the center of a perfect storm for accelerating maritime innovation.

“I congratulate and thank everyone who has been part of the vision and commitment to implementing Washington Maritime Blue,” said Gov. Jay Inslee. “I am proud that Washington is among those charting the course to ocean health and sustainable maritime practices. The transition is happening now in our state.”