Influence of Blue Economy on the Sustainability of Beverage Industries in Makurdi Metropolis of Benue State, Nigeria

This study examined the effect of the blue economy on the sustainability of beverage industries in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria. Data were collected from managers and employees of selected beverage industries in Makurdi Metropolis using structured questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistics and Multiple Regression were employed in analyzing the data. Findings indicate that water resource availability and aquatic environmental protection have not significantly influenced the sustainability of beverage industries while water quality management and sustainable water utilization significantly influenced the sustainability of beverage industries in Makurdi metropolis of Benue State. The study concluded that the blue economy is a significant determinant of sustainability among beverage industries in Makurdi Metropolis. However, while beverage industries that adopt blue economy practices are more likely to achieve long-term sustainability and competitiveness, the level at which beverage industries in Makurdi metropolis adopt blue economy practices is mixed. The study recommended among others, that Benue State Government should strengthen policies promoting sustainable water resource management for enhanced aquatic environmental protection and sustainability of beverage industries, especially now that Benue State Investment and Property Commission (BIPC) has a stake in the beverage sector.