Speakers
Juan Ramón Pérez
Director General of Forest Policy and Biodiversity at the Ministry of Sustainability and Environment of the Regional Government of Andalusia
In my current role as Director General of Forest Policy and Biodiversity for the Regional Government of Andalusia, I have achieved significant progress, such as improving the conservation status of the Iberian lynx, which has changed from “endangered” to “vulnerable.” Additionally, under the Directorate General, we are developing the new Andalusian Forestry Law, focused on sustainability, climate change adaptation, forest multifunctionality, and the promotion of economic activity linked to forest resources.
In July 2019, I assumed responsibility as the Provincial Director in Córdoba for the Andalusian Housing and Rehabilitation Agency, as part of the government renewal led by Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla in the Regional Government of Andalusia.
With a solid background in climate change, agri-environmental management, and project planning within public administration, I have extensive experience in both the private and public sectors.
During my tenure in local government (2011–2019), I managed several departments of the Cabra City Council in a full-time capacity. My years of experience in the private sector enabled me to introduce new processes, working methodologies, risk analysis, and goal-setting approaches in local public administration, while ensuring effective problem-solving, quick response times, and direct engagement with citizens.
Session:
- BC02 - Living Resources, Invasive Algae and Circular Solutions
BC02 · Living Resources, Invasive Algae, and Circular Solutions
From natural hazard to economic opportunity
The proliferation of invasive algae such as Rugulopteryx okamurae on the Andalusian coast and other areas of the Mediterranean currently represents a major environmental, tourism, fishing, and economic challenge. Its impact is felt directly on beaches, artisanal fishing, and the quality of the landscape, affecting local development and the tourist experience in coastal municipalities.
This round table proposes to address this issue from a blue circular economy perspective, promoted by municipalities and aligned with the Andalusian Strategy for a Sustainable Blue Economy, which clearly envisages the valorization of marine biomass as an engine for development. Through dialogue between affected municipalities, start-ups, administrations, and European experts, innovative solutions will be presented to transform this threat into biofuels, natural fertilizers, regenerative materials, or new industries linked to the blue bioeconomy.