CSR Empowerment and the Blue Economy: Evidence from Coastal MSMEs in Lampung, Indonesia

Abstract

This study integrates debates on corporate social responsibility (CSR), coastal micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) empowerment, and the blue economy within the specific context of Lampung, Indonesia. It examines how CSR can strengthen seafood-processing MSMEs and support sustainable coastal development. A qualitative literature review was conducted using thematic content analysis of peer-reviewed journal articles, policy documents, and official publications concerning CSR, MSMEs, the blue economy, and coastal communities in Lampung. The synthesis indicates that productive CSR initiatives enhance MSME capacity through skills training, production technology, business legality support, certification, brand promotion, and market access. Integrating blue economy principles directs empowerment efforts toward waste reduction, resource efficiency, product diversification, and environmental responsibility. The proposed CSR-based blue economy empowerment model provides guidance for companies, local governments, and community facilitators in designing empowerment programs that strengthen competitiveness without compromising coastal ecosystems.