Bädeker, Jan-Christoph (2021) Planning for Seaweed Optimism - Exploring Ecosystem-Based Marine Spatial Planning with the Case of the Norwegian Blue Kelp Forests. Master thesis.
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2021-05-23_Bädeker_DDM WCM EIP Thesis_Planning for Seaweed Optimism.pdf Download (6MB) | Preview |
Abstract
Overarching goal of this thesis is to find out whether more traditional Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) or a more ecosystem-based approach (EBA) focus is more adept at achieving sustainable end goals for marine governance. For this purpose, a case study around the Norwegian Blue Kelp Forests (NBKF) was researched. Kelp is a diverse and multi-faceted ecosystem that is linked to different phenomena like hindering climate change or acting as a carbon sink within the carbon capture and storage realm. Its many uses from seafood for human consumption to marine habitats and breeding grounds for local species provide a seemingly broad range of potential benefits for planning. Data was collected through a literature review, conference participation and semi-structured expert interviews. Interviews revealed that many researchers are dealing with EBAs, yet mostly remain in an informative role towards planning. In the bottom-up nature of Norwegian governance, potential uses for kelp forests are identified. Utilizing these efforts for planning is seen as an important step to integrate more ecosystems across the three dimensions of natural resource management (NRM): social, ecological and economic. Whilst there was no apparent link from preliminary research between the use of kelp forests and MSP, the research established a high-potential albeit indirect connection through the EBAs. Kelp forests are deemed “no-regret measures” and their many benefits make them viable tools for the planner within the new framework of more ecosystem- focused MSP going forward.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Master) |
|---|---|
| Degree programme: | Environmental & Infrastructure Planning |
| Supervisor: | Neef, M.R. and Van Kann, F.M.G. |
| Date Deposited: | 30 Jun 2021 12:51 |
| Last Modified: | 30 Jun 2021 12:51 |
| URI: | https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/3490 |
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