Introduction to the Sustainable Blue Economy: Concepts, Challenges, and Opportunities

The following is offered as standalone courses and will form part of the growing Leadership in the Sustainable Blue Economy Certificate Program. Developed in collaboration with the Students on Ice Foundation and Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, this course is designed for learners from diverse backgrounds who are exploring, entering, or advancing within the blue economy.

Introduction to the Sustainable Blue Economy: Concepts, Challenges, and Opportunities

UBC IOF Micro-certificate | 1 course | CAD $1,620 | 12 weeks | Live synchronous sessions

Introduction to the Sustainable Blue Economy is designed for learners seeking to build foundational knowledge and essential skills to join or advance in Canada’s growing blue economy. This 12-week course offers a broad introduction to the sustainable blue economy, covering topics, challenges, and opportunities worldwide. It fills a gap in current programming by providing a flexible online learning environment backed by one of the world’s leading ocean science research institutions. Participants will establish a foundational understanding of the Sustainable Blue Economy and the key challenges and opportunities involved in working toward a sustainable blue economic future. Along the way, you will develop the ability to ethically engage with and summarize scholarly research, analyze and communicate data, and clearly convey the latest findings in the field — while identifying your own strengths and creating a personal plan for continued skill development. Weekly engagement includes live discussions, readings, and a wide range of resources including videos, policy reports, podcasts, and news releases. In-class activities — including concept mapping, communication exercises, peer feedback, and breakout groups — build toward a final Capstone Project. Developed in collaboration with the Students on Ice Foundation and Canada’s Ocean Supercluster. Designed and instructed by Dr. Meaghan Efford.

Dr. Meaghan Efford
Lead curriculum developer and instructor for the Introduction to the Sustainable Blue Economy. A historical ecologist, archaeologist, and postdoctoral research and teaching fellow at the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, Dr. Efford brings an interdisciplinary approach to sustainability education and is an expert in human-environment relationships over deep time.

Next session

May 1 – July 30, 2026. Live sessions on Mondays, 12:00–2:00 PM.

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