The marine- and ocean-sector industries, collectively known as the Blue Economy, experienced significant growth despite the disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. According to recent statistics released by NOAA and the Bureau of Economic Affairs, marine activities accounted for $777 billion in sales in 2022 and had an economic impact of $476 billion, representing a 1.8 percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, marine sector employment increased by 5 percent to 2.4 million jobs, outpacing the national economy.
Although overall gains were achieved, the marine living resources sector saw a decline of 6.7 percent from 2021, totaling $31 billion. However, this figure was still higher than levels seen in 2020. NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad emphasized the importance of the Blue Economy to American prosperity in a statement on Friday. He highlighted how the ocean and Great Lakes play a crucial role in the overall health of the U.S. economy and impact people’s lives in various ways.
