How Do Determinant Factors and Stakeholders Shape the Future of Sustainable Blue Economy Development? A Literature-Based Content Analysis

The conceptualization of the blue economy is a further exploitation of the Green Economy, a more general approach to socio-economic activities that aim to reduce environmental degradation on land, air, or sea [9]. Oceans, seas, and coastal areas are integral and crucial components of the Earth's ecosystem and are essential to sustainable development. The blue economy is closely related to the sustainable development paradigm, as the development of business models incorporating environmentally friendly innovation creates broader social benefits and promising financial returns. Many factors need to be evaluated to achieve a sustainable blue economy. Determinants such as government policies, technological advancements, and consumer demand all play a role in shaping the future of sustainable blue economy development [10]. Stakeholders, including governments, businesses, NGOs, and local communities, must work together to ensure that oceans are protected and managed sustainably for the coming years. Collaboration and cooperation among these stakeholders are essential in achieving a successful and sustainable blue economy [11]. By working together, they can implement effective policies, invest in innovative technologies, and educate consumers about the importance of protecting the ocean. This collective effort will help conserve marine biodiversity, support local economies, and address the challenges of climate change and overfishing [12]. Ultimately, prioritizing sustainability and responsible management practices ensures that our oceans remain healthy and productive for generations to come.

While developing a sustainable blue economy is important, it is also essential to consider the urgent needs of communities that depend on marine resources for their livelihoods [13]. Implementing strict conservation measures without addressing social and economic impacts can jeopardize vulnerable populations. It is important to find a balance between conservation efforts and supporting communities to ensure long-term success [14]. This balance can be achieved through community engagement, education, and the implementation of sustainable practices that benefit the environment and the communities that depend on it. By taking a holistic approach to ocean conservation and development, we can create a future where marine ecosystems and coastal communities can thrive together [15]. Finally, by working together to achieve common goals, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

4.1 Distribution of articles

The final sample of 64 articles was carefully analyzed. Table 1 summarizes the distribution of articles, including author name and year of publication, title, citations, research setting, methodology, and journal.

Table 1. Top 10 most relevant contributions

The research was conducted in a wide range of countries and regions with particularly large bodies of water, including Bangladesh, Indonesia, Brazil, and Timor Leste, as well as in broader regions such as the Indian Ocean and Africa. The results show that the blue economy is a global issue with different challenges and opportunities in various regional contexts. Research from these different countries can help in understanding the implementation of the blue economy at large and provide diverse perspectives. Some studies focus on resource management, ecosystem sustainability, and social aspects of the blue economy. For example, research by Karani [22], the relationship between ecotourism and sustainability is an important element in the development of an equitable blue economy. Other research, such as that conducted by Sarwar [23] and van Wyk [26], assesses economic impacts and relevant government strategies to achieve economic sustainability.

Research by Cisneros-Montemayor [19] has the highest number of citations (91), indicating that the findings have a significant impact on policy development or further research in the context of the blue economy. More recent research, despite having fewer citations, can still provide valuable insights into the field, as seen in studies related to the blue economy and entrepreneurship [28].

Table 2 shows that among the 64 studies, 30 used qualitative methods, 15 quantitative, 6 mixed methods, and 13 literature reviews. The dominance of qualitative approaches highlights the complexity of the blue economy and the importance of understanding local perspectives and social context.

Table 2. Documents by method

Based on the frequency distribution of blue economy publications from 2015 to 2024 (see Figure 3), the number of studies has increased significantly since 2020, reaching its peak in 2023. Before 2020, research on this topic was still limited, indicating that the blue economy has gained broader academic and policy attention only in recent years. This trend reflects growing awareness of sustainable maritime economic development.

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Figure 3. Frequency distribution by year

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Figure 4. Network mapping of literature

Based on the network mapping in Figure 4, several under-researched topics that present potential for future studies include blue finance, adaptive cycle, ecosystem-based approach, bluepreneurs, and environmental impact assessment.

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Figure 5. Overlay visualisation

Furthermore, the overlay visualization (see Figure 5) indicates that the most recent topics explored in 2024 related to the blue economy are ecosystem management, ecosystem-based approach, measurement of the blue economy, and blue economy competencies, particularly in the context of human resources. This finding is supported by the density visualization (see Figure 6), which shows that these topics have significantly lower density compared to more dominant themes such as blue economy and sustainability.

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Figure 6. Density visualisation

4.2 Content findings

Based on a content analysis of 64 papers, key determinants of sustainable blue economy development were identified and grouped into macro, meso, and micro levels, reflecting their scope and influence. Common themes include local community involvement, government policy, and socio-economic sustainability. For instance, Novaglio et al. [27] emphasized the importance of ecosystem conservation and social welfare within the blue economy framework. These findings underscore the need to balance economic benefits with environmental protection, particularly in regions highly vulnerable to climate change and resource exploitation. The active involvement of diverse stakeholders such as governments, private sectors, local communities, NGOs, and researchers are essential in shaping inclusive strategies, aligning interests, and ensuring long-term sustainability across all levels of intervention.

4.3 Macro-level

Macro-level factors (see Table 3), such as policy and regulation, environmental conditions, economic growth, maritime security, gender equality, and human rights, as well as risks and uncertainties, largely determine the direction of sustainable blue economy development. Government policies and regulations play a central role in promoting or hindering a sustainable blue economy [21, 29, 30]. Regulations supporting marine conservation, natural resource protection, and promoting a green economy will increase the participation of related sectors, such as sustainable fisheries, marine tourism, and renewable energy [21, 31-34]. Conversely, inadequate policies can lead to overexploitation, pollution, and damage to marine ecosystems [35]. The policy also plays a role in setting incentives, such as subsidies for renewable energy and taxes on activities that damage the marine environment [36]. The state of the marine environment, including climate change, biodiversity decline, and marine pollution, greatly affects the blue economy [31, 37-39].

Table 3. Macro-level factors of developing a sustainable blue economy

Environmental degradation can reduce fisheries yields, damage coral reef ecosystems, and undermine the sustainability of sectors such as fisheries, tourism, and mariculture [40, 41]. Therefore, the sustainability of the blue economy depends on the proper preservation of the marine environment as well as efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change. National and global economic growth can influence the development of the blue economy. On the one hand, economic growth can create opportunities for investment in marine infrastructure, technological innovation, and expansion of marine-related sectors [26, 27, 42]. However, unsustainable economic growth can increase pressure on marine resources through greater exploitation. Therefore, it is important to balance economic growth with sustainability principles. Maritime security is an important factor affecting the blue economy, especially in activities such as fishing, marine transportation, and natural resource exploration. Threats such as piracy, illegal trade, or political instability in coastal areas can disrupt economic activity and incur additional security costs [31, 43]. Countries should invest in maritime security to support safe and stable blue economy activities.

Gender equality and respect for human rights are critical in ensuring that the blue economy is inclusive and sustainable [28, 32]. Many coastal communities depend on marine resources, and in many cases, women play an important role in fisheries and seafood processing. Without equality and social justice, vulnerable groups may be marginalized from the benefits of the blue economy [44]. Implementing policies that address gender equality and human rights will support social inclusion and equitable access to marine resources. Economic, political, and environmental risks and uncertainties have a major impact on investment in the blue economy [30]. Climate change, fluctuations in ocean commodity markets, and political conflicts can create uncertainties that hinder the development of blue economy sectors. Dealing with these risks requires adaptive approaches, investment in technological innovation, and strong risk mitigation policies.

4.4 Meso-level

Meso-level factors (see Table 4), such as infrastructure, innovation and technology, investment and financing, partnerships and cooperation, intersectoral coordination, and good governance, serve as the link between macro-level policies and micro-level implementation. Adequate infrastructure, such as ports, marine transportation facilities, seafood processing centers, and marine renewable energy technologies, enables efficient and sustainable blue economy operations [44]. Good infrastructure supports access to markets, transportation of goods, and the development of clean ocean energy, such as offshore wind energy. Technological innovation plays a role in improving the efficiency and sustainability of economic activities in marine sectors such as fisheries, mariculture, marine tourism, and renewable energy. Environmentally friendly technologies can reduce negative impacts on marine ecosystems, for example, through sustainable fishing methods, satellite-based monitoring of marine resources, and the development of clean ocean energy [30, 52].

Table 4. Meso-level factors of developing a sustainable blue economy

Adequate investment and funding are critical to advancing blue economy initiatives [46, 66]. Funding is needed for infrastructure development projects, innovative technology development, and marine resource research and management [67]. In addition, funding directed toward green activities can support the sustainable growth of the blue sector [54]. Partnerships between the public sector, private sector, local communities, and international organizations are essential to create synergies in marine resource management and blue economic development [20, 68].

This collaboration helps in knowledge transfer, technology sharing, and integrated strategic planning to achieve common economic and sustainability goals [69, 70]. The blue economy involves many sectors such as fisheries, energy, tourism, and transportation. Coordination between sectors is needed to prevent overlapping policies and conflicts of interest [25]. This coordination helps create complementary and reinforcing policies, ensuring all sectors are working in harmony for sustainability [41]. Good governance ensures transparency, accountability, and sustainable management of marine resources. Effective governance helps to regulate the wise use of marine resources, reduce the risk of environmental damage, and create a stable and sustainable investment environment [7, 53]. It also ensures that local communities are involved in the decision-making process and that the benefits of the blue economy are shared equitably.

4.5 Micro-level

Micro-level factors (see Table 5), such as data and information, social awareness and education, digital literacy, and human resources (HR), play a role in the direct implementation of the blue economy strategy. Accurate and up-to-date data is critical in sustainably managing marine resources [44]. Information on the condition of marine ecosystems, fish stocks, pollution, and climate change enable evidence-based decision-making to avoid over-exploitation. With good data, stakeholders can design more informed policies and more effectively manage sectors such as fisheries, marine tourism, and marine renewable energy [31, 41]. Social awareness and education play a major role in changing individual and community behavior [30]. Adequate education can improve people's understanding of the importance of marine sustainability and encourage environmentally friendly practices [76, 77]. This awareness also drives support for environmental policies and active participation in marine conservation efforts.

Table 5. Micro-level factors of developing a sustainable blue economy

Digital literacy enables blue economy sector actors to utilize digital technology in ocean management and monitoring [30]. For example, digital applications for fisheries monitoring, satellite-based navigation systems, or the use of big data to predict changes in the marine environment can improve operational efficiency and sustainability. Digitally literate businesses are better able to innovate, adopt new technologies, and utilize information quickly [43, 63]. Skilled human resources with a deep understanding of the marine sector are essential for the development of a sustainable blue economy. HR development through training, education, and specialized skills development in areas such as sustainable fisheries, ocean energy, and ecosystem management will increase the workforce's capacity [77]. Competent human resources are also able to adapt to technological and environmental changes, and lead innovations that support sustainability [22].

4.6 Stakeholders’ role

Stakeholders play an important role in influencing the performance of a sustainable blue economy, as shown in Table 6, through their contributions, interests, and responsibilities [56]. Local communities play a role in sustainable resource management through traditional practices and local knowledge [19, 39]. Their active participation in decision-making and ecosystem conservation is essential to ensure that policies take into account their needs and rights [33]. Governments are responsible for protecting ecosystems and ensuring that blue economy development is in line with sustainability goals [72]. Through law enforcement and supervision, governments can encourage sustainable practices and address inter-stakeholder conflicts [20, 60].

Table 6. Stakeholders’ role in developing a sustainable blue economy

The private sector contributes to the development of the blue economy through investment and innovation in environmentally friendly technologies [47, 62, 79]. Companies can create sustainable products and services, and participate in corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs that support environmental conservation. NGOs act as advocates for environmental protection and community rights [30, 33, 38]. They are often involved in awareness campaigns, education, and research to support sustainable policies [56, 61]. NGOs can also facilitate dialog between stakeholders and help mediate conflicts, as well as provide support in the implementation of sustainability projects [41].

Academics and researchers provide science-based data, analysis, and solutions to the challenges faced in blue economy development [69]. They research marine ecosystems, climate change impacts, and best practices in resource management. The knowledge generated can help inform evidence-based decision-making [25, 41, 47]. International organizations, such as the UN and related agencies, provide frameworks, guidelines, and support for the development of a sustainable blue economy at the global level [22, 53, 67]. They facilitate collaboration between countries, provide resources and financing, and encourage the adoption of policies that align with global sustainability goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) [24, 27].

Conflicts in the sustainable blue economy often emerge between exploitation and conservation, economic interests and local communities, ocean energy use and ecosystem protection, as well as regulation and business activities. Disputes also arise over ocean access, sectoral management, and national versus international interests. Resolving these issues requires open dialogue, mediation, and science-based approaches. Governments should promote fair policies, while collaboration and equitable benefit-sharing among stakeholders can ease tensions. Education and awareness are essential to support more sustainable and inclusive solutions.

The findings indicate that the sustainability of the blue economy is not shaped by isolated determinants, but by a dynamic and multi-level causal chain linking macro, meso, and micro factors through stakeholder interactions. At the macro-level, national policies, governance quality, and global environmental commitments create enabling or constraining conditions that influence investment climates, institutional cooperation, and innovation pathways. These top-down mechanisms determine the extent to which sustainability principles are embedded within national and regional blue economy agendas.

At the meso level, the translation of macro policies into operational frameworks occurs through institutional coordination, technological innovation, and partnership networks. This level acts as a mediating bridge, where public–private collaboration, funding availability, and governance quality directly affect how strategic visions are implemented in practice. For instance, transparent governance and strong partnerships enhance cross-sectoral coordination, which subsequently strengthens implementation capacity at the local level.

At the micro level, community awareness, human capital, and digital literacy represent the behavioral and operational outcomes of the broader system. These micro factors are shaped by policy incentives and institutional support from higher levels, but they also feed back upward by generating social innovation, local entrepreneurship, and data that inform new policy cycles.

Stakeholders play distinct yet interconnected roles in maintaining this causal flow. Governments and international organizations act as macro-level enablers by designing regulatory and financial frameworks. Private sectors and NGOs occupy the meso-level space, translating governance goals into concrete actions through innovation and community programs. Local communities, academics, and researchers operate primarily at the micro level, where adoption, knowledge generation, and behavioral change occur. These interactions form a bidirectional system in which top-down policy interventions and bottom-up community practices continually reinforce each other, shaping the long-term trajectory of a sustainable blue economy.

This causal and directional model suggests that sustainable outcomes depend on the alignment and feedback consistency across levels: policies (macro) create enabling environments, institutions and technologies (meso) operationalize them, and community behavior (micro) sustains the outcomes. Disruption in one level—such as weak governance or low public participation—can weaken the entire system, emphasizing the importance of integrated, multi-stakeholder governance.

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Figure 7. Empirical model: Directional linkages among determinant levels and stakeholder roles in sustainable blue economy

Figure 7 illustrates causal and directional linkages among macro, meso, and micro determinant levels and stakeholder roles. The model highlights top-down policy influence and bottom-up feedback loops that collectively shape the sustainability trajectory of the blue economy.

While the three-level determinant structure proposed in this study may appear conceptually straightforward, it provides a context-specific adaptation that complements established analytical frameworks such as DPSIR (Driver–Pressure–State–Impact–Response) and SES (Social–Ecological Systems). The DPSIR model offers a linear cause–and–effect perspective focused on environmental pressures and responses, whereas the SES framework emphasizes the reciprocal interactions between ecological systems and social institutions. In contrast, the macro–meso–micro model applied in this study integrates both system-level and actor-level dimensions, linking policy and governance mechanisms (macro), institutional coordination and innovation (meso), and community capacity and behavioural adaptation (micro) within a unified analytical lens. This structure not only aligns with the causal logic embedded in DPSIR and SES but also extends their application by explicitly incorporating stakeholder roles and governance functions as integral components of blue economy sustainability. Thus, the model contributes a stakeholder-oriented synthesis that bridges conceptual frameworks with actionable insights for policy and strategic planning in diverse coastal and marine contexts.