Blue Technologies and Why San Diego Should be the Blue Finance Capital of the World

The Finest City

This episode features Greg Murphy from Fugro, a world leader in providing geo-data consulting through mapping, modeling, and monitoring information about our planet and the structures built upon it. Greg is also Vice Chair on the Board at the San Diego Maritime Museum. In the conversation, Greg talks about the innovative future of blue technologies, the importance of ocean sustainability, and San Diego's potential as a blue finance capital. He discusses the concept of blue carbon, the Port of San Diego’s proactive approach to sea level rise, and exciting developments in the local blue tech industry such as offshore wind energy and cell-cultured seafood. Greg also shares insights from the International Conference on Small Island Developing States and emphasizes the importance of nature-based solutions for coastal resilience.

Timestamps:

[2:13] Greg discusses his background in the blue economy and involvement with the San Diego Maritime Museum and its importance in preserving maritime history.

[7:07] Overview of Fugro’s work and why it’s relevant to coastal resilience worldwide.

[7:37] Fugro is the world’s leading geo-data specialist.

[9:01] How Fugro supports the energy transition and creates a safe-liveable world using data.

[10:01] How is the San Diego Bay looking when it comes to sea level rise?

[12:20] Greg defines blue carbon and its importance in coastal ecosystems and climate change mitigation.

[15:31] Why San Diego should become the blue finance capital of the world.

[17:19] Why do we need blue finance?

[18:24] How the Port of San Diego has supported blue tech so far.

[20:00] Highlights of exciting developments in San Diego’s blue tech industry, including offshore wind and cell-cultured seafood.

[25:08] Oceanside’s innovative “re-beach” program to address beach erosion.

[26:47] The importance of resilience at the government level.

About C-3

Even before the California Coastal Commission or Environmental Protection Agency existed, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) was the environmental conscience of San Diego. Since that time, in part due to C-3’s leadership in education, advocacy, and empowerment, a plethora of organizations have developed throughout San Diego County. These organizations specifically focus on promoting progressive values in architecture, urban design, land-use governance, natural resource management, sustainable economic development, climate change resilience, and social justice. As the field of allies has grown, C-3’s role has evolved to provide a platform that promotes creating civic community.

Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement:

C3sandiego.org

Maritime Museum of San Diego

Fugro

Quotes:

• “I love the Maritime Museum of San Diego. The people and the culture of the organization are really what drew me in. The museum is unlike most museums, where we celebrate the everyday citizen.” — Greg [4:47]

• “For me, maritime history is human history. Many of us have a story, but it’s also about the history of technology.” — Greg [5:51]

• “Maritime history is embedded into who we are as a people and who we are as a planet.” — Greg [6:33]

• “Our mission is to create a safe, livable world using data.” — Greg [10:02]

• “This whole idea of blue carbon is about converting these nature-based systems into bankable opportunities.” — Greg [15:38]

• “Get out in nature! Take a hike. Experience the beauty that we have around us here in San Diego. Visit the Maritime Museum. I think that’s one way we can all build resilience for ourselves.” — Greg [27:13]