ALBERT

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 99〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Pablo Quero García, Javier García Sanabria, Juan Adolfo Chica Ruiz〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In recent years the European Union has firmly committed itself to energy from oceans as a means of decarbonising the European energy system. Despite a favourable political landscape, the development of offshore renewables still faces economic and technological barriers, which are coupled with the inherent difficulties of an increasingly industrialised marine environment, such as complex evolving regulation, lack of knowledge regarding the possible environmental impact of such an activity, as well as spatial conflicts with other traditional and emerging uses. Most of the coastal Member States have adopted Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) as a fundamental tool for integrated and sustainable management of human activities in the marine environment. MSP is capable of definitively driving the use of offshore renewable facilities. Its proper application supports decision making, simplifies and accelerates the process of obtaining permits, improves compatibility of uses, integrates stakeholders in planning, prevents environmental deterioration of sensitive areas, enhances the availability of information and promotes cross-border co-operation. This paper aims to evaluate the influence of maritime spatial planning processes on the advance of blue energy within the framework of the European Union. The results show positive relationships between MSP and the development of offshore renewable energy in countries such as Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.〈/p〉〈/div〉 〈h5〉Graphical abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉〈figure〉〈img src="https://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0308597X1830304X-fx1.jpg" width="477" alt="fx1" title="fx1"〉〈/figure〉〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 99〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Bong-Tae Kim, Christopher L. Brown, Do-Hoon Kim〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉We assess the vulnerability to climate change of Korean aquaculture based on predicted changes in seawater temperature and salinity in adjacent sea areas of the Korean Peninsula according to representative concentration pathways (RCP) scenarios. Unlike previous studies that have been conducted mostly on a national scale, we classify 14 farming species in major production regions of the Republic of Korea, and assess their vulnerability for each region, using the indicator-based method and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's definition of vulnerability in order to overcome limitations in developing specific adaptation strategies within a country. First, for each exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity, specific and proper indicators are selected. Subsequently, these indicators are estimated and weighted to analyze vulnerability to climate change. The results show that the absolute level of vulnerability is high in a long-term period of RCP8.5 in which exposure becomes severe, whereas the relative vulnerability is similar among farming species and regions. Specifically, vulnerability is at the highest level in seaweed, such as laver and sea mustard, while fish, shrimp, and abalone are relatively less vulnerable to climate change.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 99〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Y.W. Bakker, J. de Koning, J. van Tatenhove〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Between 2010 and 2016, the Orkney Islands Council, Highland Council and Marine Scotland have collaborated to develop a pilot Marine Spatial Plan for the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters in Scotland. This paper explores the challenges of marine spatial planning processes by looking at the possibilities for fisheries communities to mobilize their social capital – in the form of bonding, bridging or linking – in order to re-position and to empower themselves in these processes. This paper aims to uncover the resilience of local communities that deploy social capital in order to influence MSP processes and safeguard their own interests. For this article ten weeks of qualitative fieldwork in the form of in-depth interviews and participant observation with stakeholders of the pilot marine spatial plan were conducted on the Orkney Islands in Scotland. The strong bonding social capital among fishermen in Orkney has resulted in a resilient community identity which allows for collaboration and self-organization, but also creates a defensive mentality which does not favor linking. Furthermore, a lack of trust in governmental authorities inhibits the mobilization of linking social capital among fishermen, obstructing the ability to access power through cross-scale connections. In response the fisheries community uses bridging social capital outside governance arenas to access networks and mobilize resources to strengthen its socio-economic and political position in support of future linking social capital. Researching this complex interrelation and functioning of social capital uncovers some of the social dimensions and socio-institutional constraints for fisheries engagement with and power in marine spatial planning.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 125〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Lei Zhang, Quande Qin, Yi-Ming Wei〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Distributed energy (DE) is a way to cascade energy use near multiple users. It significantly impacts energy savings, emission reductions and energy structure upgrades. In recent years, all levels of the Chinese government have strived to introduce policies favorable to the implementation of DE. These policies have been affected by the timing of the introduction, regional economic differences, the degree of government attention, and many other complex factors. To clarify the development and links between these policies, this study summarizes and compares China's DE policies at national, provincial, and municipal levels, from 1989 to 2016. We analyze the scope and content of subsidies in detail, and then provide policy recommendations for DE development in China. The main results are as follows: (1) DE policies emerge from legal provisions in the areas of energy, electricity, and environmental protection. The policies have gradually evolved from macro-plans to specific guidance. (2) The demand for DE subsidies is increasing, making the back slope of subsidies significant under an insufficient government budget. Diverse subsidies are needed to address this contradiction. (3) Future policies should focus on comprehensive DE utilization, smart grids, research and development (R&D), and developing policy synergies at different levels.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 125〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Rick Hölsgens〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Even though the Netherlands was well-endowed with domestic resources, but has also been dependent on foreign supplies. From 1850 onward, consumption of imported coal grew quickly. At the turn of the century, politicians became uneasy about this growing dependence. In 1901 the state-owned State Mines were established to exploit domestic coal and production gradually grew. In the interwar period the Netherlands became almost self-sufficient in coal. After WWII, it experienced a fast transition to oil dependence. In 1959 natural gas was discovered in Groningen by Shell and Esso, and the government forced them to join forces with the State Mines in the exploitation. The fast introduction of natural gas diminished the role of coal, but dependence on imported oil remained. The oil crisis triggered a reorientation of the energy policy, with emphasis on diversification in terms of resources and supplier countries. The export of natural gas was reconsidered. Shifts in energy resource consumption in the Netherlands in the past 150 years, were closely related to perceptions of risks. The Dutch government was strongly involved in previous energy transitions and will also have an important role to play in the transition to renewable energy.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 125〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Pablo Hevia-Koch, Henrik Klinge Jacobsen〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Cost efficient deployment of wind energy is in focus for reaching ambitious targets for renewable energy and transforming the energy supply to one based on renewables. However, as more wind is being deployed the available sites onshore become less attractive in terms of wind conditions and capacity factor and more resistance from population groups affected in the deployment areas results in a reduction of areas that can be developed. We consider three different methods for estimating acceptance costs, one based on compensation and property purchase costs, one based on property value loss near wind turbines, and one based on willingness to pay calculated from a stated preference study. Utilising these methods, we provide an estimation of Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE) for an expansion of 12 GW onshore or offshore wind capacity in Denmark. We find that the three methods provide similar estimates for local acceptance, but that a high range of uncertainty exists in the upper bound of acceptance costs. Onshore does not have a clear-cut cost advantage over offshore when considering substantial amounts of wind capacity expansion and using high estimates for nation-wide acceptance costs. Moderate onshore wind expansion considering only local acceptance has a cost advantage.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 125〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Corbett Grainger, Andrew Schreiber, Fan Zhang〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Energy and heat cross-subsidies are common in developing and transitioning countries, but the distributional and efficiency impacts of these policies (and reform) are largely unknown. In Post-Soviet countries such as Belarus, revenues from an industrial tariff on electricity are used to cross-subsidize heating for households. We analyze the distributional impacts of cross-subsidy reform with both input output methods and a calibrated static computable general equilibrium (CGE) model with heterogeneous households based on a household consumption survey. On average, GDP gains of roughly a quarter of a percent are computed across model runs which reduce taxes and subsidies from cross-subsidization. Reducing household heating subsidy rates equally across income groups is found to be regressive. Poorer households are overly-burdened due to higher heating expenditures while richer households enjoy gains from cheaper market prices for goods. The GDP gains are even larger when the tax rates are structured to create a distributionally-neutral reform.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 125〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Mogens Rüdiger〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The aim of this article is to examine the shifting strategies towards the dependence on imported energy which has originated from the lack of energy resources in Denmark. The article suggests that the international economic conditions strongly influenced the energy strategies chosen in the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1970s and onwards, the dependence was dealt with as a combination of diversification of the energy mix, conservation and improved efficiency.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 99〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Hyun Jung Kim〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉South Korea has started cracking down on Chinese vessels in the Yellow Sea, in response to their increasing illegal fishing activities and armed resistance. This research examines changes in Korea's use of force against Chinese illegal fishing after exploring the current fishing situation in this undelimited area. Korea's strengthened stance against illegal fishing, as illustrated by its amended Maritime Security Act and the Korea Coast Guard's new internal rules, is studied to verify whether it meets the requirements of international law. Korea's law and practice, in general, seem to respect international law by balancing two purposes: ensuring the effective exercise of law enforcement and the safety of officers and fishermen. This article suggests some recommendations to improve Korea's compliance with international law.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 99〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Benedict E. Singleton〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This article discusses the tendency within environmental communication to homogenise diverse situations. Utilising the case of whale conservation it describes how actors on both sides of the whaling debate utilise the ‘super-whale’ – a homogenised discursive construct. The article argues that there are pragmatic advantages to such framing of environmental situations but also costs. In the case of whale conservation, the super-whale maintains focus on whaling rather than other, arguably more pressing, threats to whale species. More generally, utilising such framing tactics arguably prevent the voicing of new narratives about the global social order.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 125〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Shuwei Jia, Xiaolu Liu, Guangle Yan〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉To study the effect of the air pollution charging fee (APCF) policy on the haze pollution in China, a dynamics management model is constructed with the approach of system dynamics and implemented by using the Vensim software. This model is used to simulate and assess the effect of APCF policy on the traffic and the emissions (particularly carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), nitrogen oxides (NO〈sub〉x〈/sub〉), and particulate matter (PM)) in Beijing during the years 2011–2025 in different scenarios. The validity and the robustness of the model are verified by a model test and validation, and a reasonable range of APCF is determined by using a sensitivity analysis. The simulation results showed that the APCF policy effectively realized the “win-win” scenario of emission reduction and congestion release. In particular, the simulation results also indicated some policy effects such as rebound effect (from low-APCF policy), inflection-point effect (from high-APCF policy), and marginal decreasing effect (between moderate and high-APCF policy). These results provide some valid policy recommendations for energy management and emission reduction.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 125〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Andrew Reimers, Wesley Cole, Bethany Frew〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The planning reserve margin is the predominant metric used in long-term planning models to ensure the resource adequacy of projected power systems. Considerable work has been done to estimate the contribution of variable renewable energy resources, such as wind and solar, to the planning reserve margin, but little work has been done to assess what planning reserve margin should be used in planning models. Typically, U.S.-based models use the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC)-recommended reserve margin levels. However, historical reserve margins have often exceeded the NERC-recommended levels, suggesting that the use of NERC-recommended levels in planning models may negatively bias projected future capacity investments relative to real-world trends. Using the Regional Energy Deployment System capacity expansion model, we show that setting the planning reserve margin to observed levels in lieu of the NERC-recommended levels leads to substantial differences in near-term capacity additions. Scenarios using alternative specifications for the reserve margin resulted in increased national solar builds of 20–100 GW. Given that the magnitude on results from altering the reserve margin level is similar to or greater than many policies frequently analyzed with planning models, careful consideration of the reserve margin level is crucial for developing accurate power sector projections.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: February 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 125〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Katherina Grashof〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The use of auctions for determining the level of renewable energy remuneration is increasing. A cause for concern is the resulting potential to exclude smaller investors from the market, in particular community energy projects. However, empirical evidence and examination of resulting consequences have been insufficient so far. This article analyses the effects a shift from guaranteed remuneration to auctions might have on incentives to start new community wind projects, analysing the case of Germany. It thus contributes to research on investor-specific impacts of renewable energy policy instruments. An explanatory sequential mixed-method design was applied, combining surveys and interviews for the collection of expert assessments. The developed typology allows the assessment of the respective potential of different wind project types for procedural and distributive justice, which are understood to support local acceptance. Wind projects developed by the local community were found to be most beneficial for local acceptance, but appear to face the highest challenges in auctions. A crowding out of these projects would be particularly unfortunate with regard to the need to expand wind energy capacities much more. It is recommended that policy makers ensure a level playing field, also within the context of auctions, for wind projects developed by the local community.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Vera Köpsel, Cormac Walsh〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Many coastal landscapes across Europe are undergoing change due to the impacts of a changing climate. In the context of coastal erosion, especially the question of physical access to the landscape for a variety of publics is becoming ever more important. Where a multitude of actors are involved in landscape management, diverging subjective and collective perceptions of these changing landscapes, hold potential for disagreement about suitable adaptive measures. Although the body of literature on the role of subjective values in processes of climate adaptation is growing the societal constructions of respective places and landscapes underlying different adaptation approaches remain under-researched. We show in this paper that how landscapes are understood by actors in environmental management matters for decision-making. In particular, different understandings of the Cornish landscape at Godrevy Headland are shown to have material implications for how issues of access, visitor management and long-term responses to climate change and coastal erosion are addressed. In the case of Godrevy, coastal erosion has required local actors to plan the relocation of a visitor car park, bringing contrasting perspectives on the landscape, its use and protection to the fore. Uncovering the individual and collective assumptions about the landscape behind these conflicting narratives, is vital for fostering inclusive policy- and planning processes around climate change adaptation.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Henrik Ringbom, Marko Joas〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The concluding chapter summarises the contributions of the special issue and draws cross-sectoral conclusions on the trends in development. The chapter analyses the findings of the BaltReg-project, an inter-disciplinary project that focused on the governance structures in the BSR and changes within those structures. Aspects of BSR governance are studied through a legal and a social science perspective. The research firstly provided a general 'birds-eye' perspective of the governance structures in the region and, secondly, a sector-based analysis of selected themes within environmental governance. The findings indicate a highly complex yet functional governance structure for the Baltic Sea that has developed especially since the end of the cold war. The key regulatory layers have become increasingly intertwined, with the EU as the clearly dominating actor within the BSR, regarding legislation as well as other steering mechanisms. The way to govern has also changed. The move towards ecosystem-based management signifies a development from hard, specific rules towards soft and process-oriented rules. Complex problems (like eutrophication and climate change) do not have simple solutions, therefore a mix of governance tools is needed. Even though there is no optimal way to govern different problems related to marine areas, it appears sensible to listen to the policy environment – natural, political and human – when creating institutions to deal with problems at hand. Flexible and adaptive governance mechanisms are needed to protect the Baltic Sea from multiple threats.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Muhammad Mehedi Masud, Ahmad S. Sackor, A.S.A. Ferdous Alam, Abul Quasem Al-Amin, Ahmad Bashawir Abdul Ghani〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The vulnerability of the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to flood disasters affects not only the underlying eco-centric and anthropocentric values therein, but also the coastal communities that are adjacent to the MPAs. The consequences can lead to economic, social and environmental degradation. As such, the perception of the coastal communities about flood risk occurrences and their effects on the MPAs are crucial for Flood Risk Management (FRM) exercises. Having an insight into the perceptions of the coastal communities about the build-up of flood risk analysis adds robustness to the FRM cycle as it can increase levels of preparedness, responses and recoveries. This paper examines the relationship between the communities’ perceived vulnerability, perceived severity of flood risks, perceived benefits of flood risk management, perceived barriers of flood management and their previous experience of flood risk management. The paper seeks to understand how this intersection influences the human intention to participate in the preventive and precautionary measures related to flood risks in MPAs. To achieve the objectives, a survey questionnaire was conducted on a sample of 320 households from MPAs in Malaysia. Data were analysed using the structural equation modelling (SEM). This study revealed that perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, and previous flood risk experience have a positive and significant influence on the intention to participate in prevention activities. This study offers valuable insights that may be useful for policymakers in promoting greater public engagement in managing climatic disasters including potential flood risks in MPAs.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Elspeth Spence, Nick Pidgeon, Paul Pearson〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The marine environment is affected by climate change in many ways but it is also affected by the separate problem of ocean acidification (OA). Anthropogenic carbon dioxide that is absorbed by the ocean causes changes in ocean chemistry including an increase in acidity. Fisheries and shellfish industries, which are vital livelihoods for some communities have already been affected by OA. As there has been little research conducted to examine public risk perceptions of this issue, the aim was to explore this through a survey (N = 954) carried out in the UK. The survey explored a range of psychological factors including concern, place attachment, and environmental identity that are known to influence risk perceptions. A regression analysis found that more concerned participants had stronger environmental identities and higher levels of knowledge about OA. As predicted, they also felt more attached to the ocean and felt more negative about OA. It was clear that place attachment and environmental identity were important factors and thus should not be neglected when developing risk communications, particularly for this unfamiliar risk issue. As unfamiliar and complex risks such as OA are becoming more prevalent and must be communicated successfully in a world full of conflicting information, it is important to consider how OA is perceived by the public and how this can inform policy decisions in future. If major mitigation and adaptation strategies are adopted by policymakers the success of these will also ultimately require society to accept them.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Andrea Keessen〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉States can play a key role in adaptation to climate change. Given the transboundary nature of the Baltic Sea, its coastal states have much to gain from cooperation to tackle eutrophication and flood risks. Since eight out of nine coastal states are EU Member States, the EU is expected to steer their efforts. Indeed, EU legislation and the EU adaptation strategy, including one specifically for the Baltic Sea Region are in place to activate state actors. They cover crucial aspects for the management of the Baltic Sea, namely reducing eutrophication and managing flood risks. However, despite the holistic goals – achieving good environmental status and reducing the adverse effects of flooding – these Directives mainly prescribe assessments and the adoption of plans. It is left to the coastal states to design ambitious objectives and take measures or rather rely on exemptions. While all coastal states have strategies in place, progress in the achievement of these goals is not easy to measure. With regard to environmental protection, HELCOM fills this gap by providing additional steering and coordination through more stringent targets for nutrients, which address the impact of climate change on eutrophication. With regard to flood risks, the Council of the Baltic Sea States seems to have started to consider taking a similar role by developing a more concrete and coordinated flood risk strategy for the marine region.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 20 August 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Stefan Partelow, Katherine Nelson〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This article examines how social networks among actors in the tourism sector have facilitated the evolution of self-organized institutions for governance on the island of Gili Trawangan, Indonesia. Increasing tourism for SCUBA diving and nightlife is driving rapid social-ecological change and challenges for sustainability in relation to waste management, social-political cohesion and conservation. While strong social networks were a sufficient means to initiate governance among the island's few early businesses in the 1990's and early 2000's, an increasing number of actors (i.e., new SCUBA businesses and hotels) and more tourists are challenging the ability of social networks to be the foundation of effective governance, where there is now an evident need for the evolution of governance to more effectively address sustainability challenges. This article combines quantitative social network analysis with the qualitative analysis of interview data, participant observations and an ethnographic examination of the island's changing social-political sphere of cooperation to examine the evolution of governance. Our results can be separated into two parts. (1) From past to present, examining how governance institutions and collective action have emerged from strong social networks. (2) From present to future, how these social networks are being undermined as the foundation for the island's governance institutions that they created, due to growth and changing social-ecological conditions. This article draws on Evolutionary Governance Theory (EGT) as an overarching frame to examine the linkages between social networks and collective action, looking specifically at the role of multi-level governance, institutional change, path dependencies and discourse analysis.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Alasdair Neilson〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This paper seeks to highlight the importance of metaphors for marine conservation and policy. It argues that the manner in which the oceans are perceived, often as an alien landscape, can limit the way language is utilised in marine conservation efforts. This limitation can produce unhelpful environmental metaphors that, instead of acting as catalysts for action, produce negative and reactionary responses. It illustrates this point through the example of what has become known as the ‘Great Pacific Garbage Patch.’ It postulates that if there is a disconnect between the many complex environmental issues facing the world's oceans and the way they are perceived, then more focus should be placed on developing pre-determined culturally embedded metaphors, which can conjure relatable imagery, but that are also rooted in scientific evidence. It recommends that, in an extension to existing public perception research (PPR) on how different communities value the ocean environment, there is room for shared metaphors of the oceanic environment to be developed that can help raise awareness within a particular cultural setting.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Steffen Oppel, Mark Bolton, Ana P.B. Carneiro, Maria P. Dias, Jonathan A. Green, Juan F. Masello, Richard A. Phillips, Ellie Owen, Petra Quillfeldt, Annalea Beard, Sophie Bertrand, Jez Blackburn, P. Dee Boersma, Alder Borges, Annette C. Broderick, Paulo Catry, Ian Cleasby, Elizabeth Clingham, Jeroen Creuwels, Sarah Crofts〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Knowing the spatial scales at which effective management can be implemented is fundamental for conservation planning. This is especially important for mobile species, which can be exposed to threats across large areas, but the space use requirements of different species can vary to an extent that might render some management approaches inefficient. Here the space use patterns of seabirds were examined to provide guidance on whether conservation management approaches should be tailored for taxonomic groups with different movement characteristics. Seabird tracking data were synthesised from 5419 adult breeding individuals of 52 species in ten families that were collected in the Atlantic Ocean basin between 1998 and 2017. Two key aspects of spatial distribution were quantified, namely how far seabirds ranged from their colony, and to what extent individuals from the same colony used the same areas at sea. There was evidence for substantial differences in patterns of space-use among the ten studied seabird families, indicating that several alternative conservation management approaches are needed. Several species exhibited large foraging ranges and little aggregation at sea, indicating that area-based conservation solutions would have to be extremely large to adequately protect such species. The results highlight that short-ranging and aggregating species such as cormorants, auks, some penguins, and gulls would benefit from conservation approaches at relatively small spatial scales during their breeding season. However, improved regulation of fisheries, bycatch, pollution and other threats over large spatial scales will be needed for wide-ranging and dispersed species such as albatrosses, petrels, storm petrels and frigatebirds.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 1 February 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Laurie Tissière, Stéphanie Mahévas, Brice Trouillet〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In marine fisheries science, the application of social sciences and the increasing use of a multidisciplinary approach have enriched fisheries research through new paradigms. The stance on fisheries governance aims to complement bio-economic approaches and to break with the “tragedy of the commons” premise by focusing on the institutions and network actors at the heart of knowledge, representations, actions and decisions systems. Although the French-European context is largely determined by the Common Fisheries Policy, governance levers and an organised network of actors have been identified in demersal and benthic fisheries. In the present study, the observation of dialogue meetings identified the stakeholder strategies and interactions used to activate these levers, while the narrative of the process provided insight into methodological (relevance of the chosen method) and practical (efficiency of the governance) limitations, and outlooks.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Emma McKinley, Tim G. Acott〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Emma McKinley, Rhoda C. Ballinger〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In Wales, there has been a concerted change in policy direction through the adoption of a new suite of legislation, presenting a mechanism for affecting change in how social, economic and environmental issues are addressed. From a coastal perspective, these Acts have the potential to improve management, resulting in sustainable, long-term solutions to the challenges facing Welsh coastal areas. Despite the positive rhetoric presented alongside these changes, their impact remains to be seen. In order to realise their expected success, engagement with practitioners charged with implementation is crucial to understanding the opportunities, challenges, successes and failures. Using saltmarshes as a lens to examine this new legislation, this paper presents the findings of a series of interviews with stakeholders from north Wales, exploring coastal practitioners’ views of what the new Acts mean for them, identifying potential challenges and opportunities in the context of coastal management. A SWOT analysis informs a discussion of how the successful application of this innovative, ground-breaking suite of legislation may be achieved. The research found stakeholders to be generally positive about the new legislation, 〈em〉and〈/em〉 the changes to coastal management that they signal across Wales. Opportunities included supporting greater collaboration, cross-sector working, interdisciplinarity and the potential to provide a blueprint for the rest of the UK as it navigates Brexit. Despite this positivity, concerns were expressed regarding funding and staff resources, lack of adequate support around implementation, among others. This integrated approach clearly stands as an opportunity to bridge traditional sectoral gaps instigating more effective stakeholder dialogue.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Viljam Engström〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The Baltic Sea Region is subject to international regulation at the global level, through EU legislation, and sub-regionally. This article aims is to identify features of the regulatory framework both in terms of the nature of core legal instruments and the role of intergovernmental organizations. As the article seeks to identify interconnections between the regulatory layers, the role of EU law for Baltic Sea cooperation warrants special attention. EU law, the article claims, not only comes with a promise of monitoring and enforcement, but can also be a main source of diffusion of the regulatory process. Further, while EU law structures the regulatory scene in accordance with EU competence, it excludes one Baltic Sea littoral state – the Russian Federation. For this reason alone, the global and regional levels retain their importance, underlining also the importance of regulatory interaction.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): William D. Halliday, Pierre-Louis Têtu, Jackie Dawson, Stephen J. Insley, R. Casey Hilliard〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Vessel traffic has been increasing rapidly in the Arctic, and within the Canadian Arctic, tourist vessels are the fastest growing maritime sector. Vessel traffic can cause a variety of impacts on whales, including ship strikes and acoustic disturbance. Here, the overlap between tourist vessels (e.g., pleasure craft/yachts and passenger vessels/cruise ships) and whale concentration areas is assessed within the Inuvialuit Settlement Region of the western Canadian Arctic. Different management measures which could be used to reduce impacts on whales are also assessed. Passenger vessels have had a relatively constant overlap with whale concentration areas through time, whereas pleasure craft have had a recent and rapid increase. Passenger vessels may have a greater impact on whales, compared to pleasure craft, since they are larger and travel faster. Excluding vessels from the two marine protected areas in the region would have no impact on whales within concentration areas, since vessels would likely just be displaced to adjacent areas with similar whale concentrations. Restricting vessels to the Canadian government's proposed low-impact corridor may reduce impact slightly, but creating a corridor completely outside of the known whale area could more significantly reduce the potential impact of vessels on whales in those areas. Restricting vessel speed within whale areas would also reduce the impact of passenger vessels, but would not likely reduce the impact of pleasure craft. Overall, a combination of management measures may be the best way to reduce impacts on whales in concentration areas.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Hermanni Backer〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This article highlights the potential of regional organizations for preparing and following-up International Maritime Organization's (IMO) decisions aiming to reduce pollution from ship based sources. The work of the Helsinki Commission (HELCOM) in the Baltic Sea region on air pollution (SOx and NOx emission control), sewage from passenger ships and ballast water management (ballast water exchange and exemptions) is used an example. While the described initiatives have emerged, matured and are followed-up within a regional cooperation framework based on the 1992 Helsinki Convention and its Annex IV, they have been drafted with the IMO framework in mind and have gained international legal status. The resulting IMO rules have led to substantial reductions in pollution to the Baltic Sea. Besides synergy with IMO and EU policy also, common features in the described successful initiatives include long term work, usually a decade from launch to IMO decision, active lead countries, close cooperation with industry and civil society as well cooperation between different constituents of national administration.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Javier Porobic, Elizabeth A. Fulton, Stewart Frusher, Carolina Parada, Marcus Haward, Billy Ernst, Diana Stram〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The Ecosystem-based Fisheries Management (EBFM) paradigm has been incorporated in the new Chilean Fisheries Act, requiring Chile to transition into EBFM. Chile is a major fishing nation and has substantial industrial and artisanal fleets that provide significant social and economic benefits to Chile and its coastal communities. With Chile facing global challenges, such as food security and climate change, transitioning to EBFM is seen as a mechanism for improved management of Chile's marine resources. Using Chile as an example to review coherence, strategies and implication of policies for transitioning toward EBFM. In Chile, the implementation of EBFM, in general, appears to be making progress and should be able to be applied for all fisheries (and aquaculture). Despite positive outcomes, there are weaknesses that can harm the successful implementation of EBFM. Changes such as management councils and scientific committees structured around ecosystems rather than single species, the engagement of broader types of stakeholders, and the use of appropriate reference points are necessary for a strong implementation of EBFM. Incorporating these modifications under the current management framework would enable Chile to improve its implementation of EBFM and prepare its fisheries to address future management challenges under scenarios of change.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Kim Anh Thi Nguyen, Curtis M. Jolly〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The exploitation of ocean tuna has become one of the most important fisheries, in terms of foreign income generation, in Khanh Hoa province. This paper examines the structure, conduct, and performance (SCP) of the tuna value chain within a value chain governance framework to answer the research questions: (a) what is the nature of the tuna value chain in Khanh Hoa province, (b) who are the actors involved in the ocean tuna value chain? (c) What type of market structure is in place and what is its effect on product flow and market performance. Results show that actors operate in an imperfectly competitive market and earn profits from their operation, but the intermediaries receive the most in comparison to their investment expenditure. Processing companies benefit more when they buy directly from the fishermen and they face many difficulties in exporting ocean tuna.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 23 August 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Graeme Macfadyen, Tim Huntington, Rod Cappell〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This short communication provides some reflections based on experience gained of designing, implementing and evaluating Official Development Assistance (ODA) in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. It highlights the importance of the ‘human’ elements in project design, implementation, and evaluation. It argues that while external factors and technical issues may be strong determinants of success or failure, more important is the ‘human element’ in terms of the skills, needs, motivations and aspirations of project designers, implementers, evaluators, and beneficiaries.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 2 June 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Véronique Le Bihan, Marie Catalo, Jeanine Le Bihan〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉 〈p〉Since the mid-2000s, the French oyster industry has faced hazards of various origins. The results of a field survey conducted under the “GIGASSAT”〈sup〉1〈/sup〉 ANR Agrobiosphere programme have highlighted productive changes in the oyster farming industry in the Bay of Bourgneuf and the Mor Braz area (southern Brittany). Beyond this observation, one may wonder to what extent technological and biotechnological developments as well as natural environmental risks participate in the reorganization of production. In order to study this process, we have relied on the theoretical concept of Porter's value chain (1986) in the context of a value chain analysis.〈/p〉 〈p〉The survey covered different topics such as the perception of oyster mortality causes, adaptation strategies in terms of supply, abandonment of offshore farming areas in favour of foreshore areas and economic performance in oyster farming. The analysis of oyster farmers’ operational activities raises questions about the existence of various types of value chains at the beginning of the period of study, which should be seen in the context of technological innovation, natural advantages and interactions with other actors. The survey also shows that in a sanitary crisis context, some oyster farmers question the configuration of their value chain from a survival perspective, whereas others maintain it. This work contributes to the identification and characterization of the various trajectories adopted by farms within the same sector in the face of natural environmental risks.〈/p〉 〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Graham Epstein, Evan Andrews, Derek Armitage, Paul Foley, Jeremy Pittman, Rebecca Brushett〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Fisheries can have significant impacts on the structure and function of marine ecosystems, including impacts on habitats and non-target species. As a result, management agencies face growing calls to account for the ecosystem impacts of fishing, while navigating the political and economic interests of diverse stakeholders. This paper assesses the impacts of two specific factors on the attitudes and well-being of shrimp fishers in the context of a selective fisheries closure designed to protect crabs in the Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: (1) the species portfolios of fishers; and (2) democratic rulemaking. The results of this analysis suggest that shrimp fishers were more likely to support selective closures for the shrimp fishery if they also fished for crab, and felt they had an influence on the management of the fishery. The results further indicate that species portfolio diversification had a positive and statistically significant impact on the subjective economic well-being of fishers. This study contributes to an emerging literature on the human dimensions of ecosystem-based fisheries management, highlighting opportunities to address trade-offs in fisheries through species diversification and by enhancing the role and influence of fishers in management processes.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Julie Raymond-Yakoubian, Raychelle Daniel〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Bringing western science and policy together with Traditional Knowledge and values from indigenous communities for ocean planning is lacking and a framework is needed. This article articulates indigenous perspectives about the ocean and a culturally appropriate methodology developed in the Bering Strait region for a visioning process that can be used to bridge western and indigenous value systems. Recommendations for an indigenous approach focused on inclusion, the examination of values, adequate representation, and Tribal direction in ocean planning and policy are made. This approach is needed to move forward on a path to achieving more equitable, sustainable and inclusive ocean planning for the future.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Catherine Kelly〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The human desire to be near coastal waters is an innate aspect of both human settlement choices and leisure behaviour. Emerging research agendas in the general field of ‘wellbeing’ focus on outdoor wellness, advocating the health and psychological benefits of nature. This presence of and engagement with coastal landscapes and water, or ‘Blue Space’ is a positive indicator in wellbeing, learning, outdoor activity and pro-environmental behaviour amongst the wider population. Simultaneously, the global marine policy agenda continues its commitment to coastal conservation and sustainability. To date, wellbeing, and marine policy agendas have mostly been segregated. This paper advocates a combined, integrative approach to policy that incorporates symbiotic sustainability-wellbeing narratives, proofing, and monitoring for the long term successful management of the coastal environment. Starting with the proposition that the sea needs humans, and humans need the sea, this research argues that valuing the coast and sea through its learning and wellbeing benefits can encourage pro-environmental and pro-sustainability attitudes. Little has been done to explore how the wellbeing benefits and emotional meaning people have felt through interacting with coastal environments can be harnessed for greater engagement and education around marine conservation. It challenges the mainstream discourse on marine conservation which often relies on people valuing the sea intrinsically from an altruistic and moral perspective. Primary research is presented on UK coastal learning and outdoor wellbeing programmes. Framing the coast as a therapeutic landscape with potential for simultaneously meeting human needs and marine needs, allows for inclusive policy decision making.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Pablo Pita, Sebastián Villasante, Robert Arlinghaus, Pedro Gomes, Harry V. Strehlow, Pedro Veiga, José Vingada, Kieran Hyder〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉European policy-makers are increasingly aware of the ecological and socioeconomic relevance of marine recreational fisheries (MRF), but there are still gaps in the information needed to achieve sustainable management. How is the current management of European MRF performed? Is it promoting the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF)? The management of MRF in Europe was reviewed by analyzing how different European regulations align with the EAF in different geographic and administrative scales. Text mining tools were used to identify key concepts and analyze the text of legal regulations on MRF in the European Union (EU), Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom (UK). Also, the Ecosystem Fisheries Legal Assessment (EFLA) framework was used to assess the alignment of the regulations with the EAF. The number of regulations about MRF in Spain and Portugal is higher than in the UK and the EU, probably because the relative higher importance of regional regulations in Spain and Portugal, and the limitations imposed to recreational fishers in marine protected areas (MPAs). The lack of specific regulations on MRF in the EU, and open-access in the UK for recreational fishers, except for Atlantic salmon 〈em〉Salmo salar〈/em〉, explain their lower number of regulations. The EFLA framework showed that the European public policies on MRF follow the EAF principles. Enough attention is payed to ecological components, but socio-economic sustainability could be improved. However, policy efficiency could be lower than expected because potential institutional misfits derived from the eventual confluence of different spatial scales.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Nathan J. Bennett〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The ocean is the next frontier for many conservation and development activities. Growth in marine protected areas, fisheries management, the blue economy, and marine spatial planning initiatives are occurring both within and beyond national jurisdictions. This mounting activity has coincided with increasing concerns about sustainability and international attention to ocean governance. Yet, despite growing concerns about exclusionary decision-making processes and social injustices, there remains inadequate attention to issues of social justice and inclusion in ocean science, management, governance and funding. In a rapidly changing and progressively busier ocean, we need to learn from past mistakes and identify ways to navigate a just and inclusive path towards sustainability. Proactive attention to inclusive decision-making and social justice is needed across key ocean policy realms including marine conservation, fisheries management, marine spatial planning, the blue economy, climate adaptation and global ocean governance for both ethical and instrumental reasons. This discussion paper aims to stimulate greater engagement with these critical topics. It is a call to action for ocean-focused researchers, policy-makers, managers, practitioners, and funders.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Henrik Ringbom, Marko Joas〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The introductory chapter outlines the objectives of the special issue and explains its structure and the role of each contributing chapter.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Elizabeth M. De Santo〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Area-based management tools (ABMTs), including marine protected areas (MPAs) are widely recognized as a key mechanism for conserving and restoring biodiversity. The developing international legally-binding instrument (ILBI) on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ) is considering a range of approaches to ABMTs. While the process is still in early stages, this paper looks ahead to anticipate implementation challenges for ABMTs, given previous experiences with regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) and high seas MPAs. Drawing on the implementation of MPAs under the OSPAR Convention and the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Living Marine Resources (CCAMLR), key suggestions revolve around: (1) improving the evidence basis for protecting BBNJ, (2) designing effective compliance and enforcement mechanisms, and (3) engaging adequately with relevant stakeholders. In addition to the case studies, which are primarily marine pollution and fishing-oriented, considerations related to mitigating the effects of deep sea mining and the harvesting of marine genetic resources are also touched upon.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): David Doloreux, Richard Shearmur〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This brief discussion paper reviews 〈em〉Canada's Ocean Supercluster〈/em〉 strategy, launched by the Canadian Federal government in early 2018. It explains what 〈em〉Canada's Ocean Supercluster〈/em〉 strategy is, why it matters for innovation and economic development, and discusses the extent to which the strategy is likely to support and strengthen the knowledge-based ocean economy in Canada. It raises a number of questions which should form the basis of a research agenda destined to better understand and improve the effectiveness of policies aimed at supporting maritime innovation, the development of coastal regions, and economic development more generally.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 13 February 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): R. Siano, A. Chapelle, V. Antoine, E. Michel-Guillou, F. Rigaut-Jalabert, L. Guillou, H. Hégaret, A. Leynaert, A. Curd〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉A citizen monitoring program (〈em〉Phenomer〈/em〉) of marine water discolorations caused by high biomass phytoplankton development (Harmful Algal Blooms, HABs) was conducted in 2013, 2014 and 2015 in the coastal waters of Brittany (France). This project aimed to explore the feasibility of acquiring scientifically valuable data on water discolorations phenomena through a citizen science approach, extending the surface area of monitored coastal waters by means of citizen observations. During the three years of the project implementation, respectively 14, 32 and 28 warnings were sampled and recognized as phytoplankton water discolorations. Respectively, 7, 24 and 14 phenomena were observed outside of routine monitoring points. Citizen observations contributed towards evaluating the extension of red discolorations caused by 〈em〉Noctiluca scintillans〈/em〉 and the duration and impact on marine fauna of green discolorations of 〈em〉Lepidodinium chlorophorum〈/em〉. A bivalve mortality event coincided with a dark-brown phytoplankton bloom characterized by the dominance of the toxic raphidophytes 〈em〉Heterosigma akashiwo〈/em〉 and 〈em〉Pseudochattonella verruculosa〈/em〉, whose presence indicate a new potential hazard in Brittany. Interview analysis of citizen observations showed that the contributors to 〈em〉Phenomer〈/em〉 are generally well-informed on environmental issues and concerned about the status of the marine environment. 〈em〉Phenomer〈/em〉 demonstrates the complementary value of citizen science programs to routine phytoplankton monitoring, as well as providing scientific information on water discolorations phenomena, whose observations over a large territory have rarely been structured. The advantages and limits shown by the 〈em〉Phenomer〈/em〉 project will help to optimize future applications of citizen science approaches for phytoplankton and HAB studies.〈/p〉〈/div〉 〈h5〉Graphical abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉〈figure〉〈img src="https://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0308597X16306169-fx1.jpg" width="266" alt="fx1" title="fx1"〉〈/figure〉〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Brita Bohman〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Ever since the problem of eutrophication emerged, many approaches have been tested within the Helsinki Convention regime to reduce the discharges of nutrients to the sea. Despite important reductions in the levels of discharge since the 1970s, the nutrient loads to the sea are still significant and need to be further reduced. At the same time, it has become increasingly difficult to reduce the pollution that causes eutrophication. This difficulty is due to the complex nature of most pollution sources currently and the diffuse releases mainly related to agricultural activities and animal production. The regulatory structure for eutrophication in the Baltic Sea region has, however, adjusted rather well to these circumstances. The development over the past decade, since the introduction of the MSFD and the BSAP, progressed in adjusting the whole HELCOM regime to an ecosystem approach. Structures were created that embrace the new demands on the regulation through this approach. These structures put additional challenges on the perception of law, the general functions of the legal system, and how to assess and enforce compliance. The new structures not only create a kind of flexibility and openness to new regulatory approaches and soft law measures, but also combine law with governance and bridge the area of strict legal regulation with voluntary measures and projects. This combination of law with governance completes the overall picture of measures and approaches, but makes the line between law, extra-legal measures and non-governmental actors or organizations difficult to detect.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 30 June 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Thomas Appleby, Matthew Studley, Brendon Moorhouse, Judith Brown, Chad Staddon, Emma Bean〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Very large marine protected areas are in danger of becoming 'paper parks'. This paper uses an interdisciplinary team to investigate the use of remote sensing technologies to provide sufficient evidence for effective fisheries management. It uses the intended marine protected area around Ascension Island as a case study. Satellite technology provides opportunities to detect the presence of fishing vessels but because of difficulties with data interpretation, it is unlikely to be a sole source of evidence for prosecutions. Developing drone technology and traditional over-flights by aerial surveillance may supplement satellite technology with 'eyewitness’ evidence. Well-crafted regulations will be able to make some use of this data, but the evidential requirements of criminal courts make prosecutions difficult to pursue. There is some scope to expand management opportunities through vesting the fishery in a public body and pursuing offenders through civil law, this approach having a different suite of remedies. Other opportunities lie in giving very large marine protected areas legal personality which has similar advantages and additional reputational benefits. Using remote sensing data in the civil court poses evidential problems. An alternative approach is to collate data around frequent infringers and, by negatively impacting on their reputation, restrict their ability to obtain insurance, finance, access to fisheries and market access. This is exemplified in port state measures by fisheries authorities and chain of custody requirements by labelling bodies. Data sharing raises challenges with intellectual property and coordination. The paper demonstrates that there are opportunities to make VLMPAs work more effectively.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Andreas Østhagen, Andreas Raspotnik〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Norway and the European Union (EU) are closely interlinked. However, one issue has arisen where interests have clashed: snow crab. A newcomer to Norwegian Arctic waters, this resource has attracted attention as projections of future profit have soared. Why is the EU pursuing a relatively minor issue over the right to catch snow crab in the Barents Sea? This issue has also brought to the fore the underlying disagreement between Norway and the EU over the status of the maritime zone and related continental shelf around the archipelago of Svalbard, stemming from the 1920 Spitsbergen Treaty. Is the EU using the snow-crab issue to challenge Norway’s Svalbard regime? How are EUropean interests in this resource best understood? At stake are also the prospects of oil and gas, as well as Arctic governance and environmental protection. The EU is a multi-faceted creature, where special interests can hijack the machinery and bring issues to the table, depending on the circumstances. This article outlines these circumstances, as well as the process concerning the dispute over snow crab and the background, which relates to economic interests, but also international politics as well as law. Further, it examines the EU’s interests, drawing on scholarly work on the EU’s position on Svalbard and interviews with Brussels-based decision-makers, officials and politicians.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Amela Ajanovic, Reinhard Haas〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉 〈p〉For a long time hydrogen has been considered a clean energy carrier to be applied universally and contribute to a sustainable energy system. However, in the real energy world hydrogen has not yet delivered. The major reason is that it has still to become economically feasible. With increasing electricity generation from variable renewables and its temporarily cheap surplus production, new prospects for hydrogen are on the horizon especially due to the rising need for a solution to the problem of the long-term storage of excess electricity.〈/p〉 〈p〉The core objective of this paper is to analyze the economic prospects of hydrogen use in the energy system keeping in mind two challenges: (i) integration of variable renewables in power systems, and (ii) substitution of fossil fuels in the transport sector. The future economics of hydrogen in passenger car transport is investigated regarding hydrogen production costs and possible learning effects of the fuel cell vehicles.〈/p〉 〈p〉The major conclusion is that the future perspective of hydrogen use depends on the policy framework, the full exploitation of economies-of-scale and technological learning for electrolysis as well as possible full-load hours per year. However, cost reduction of fuel cells for mobility through technological learning is essential for the economic competitiveness of hydrogen use in transport.〈/p〉 〈/div〉 〈h5〉Graphical abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉〈figure〉〈img src="https://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0301421518305925-fx1.jpg" width="313" alt="fx1" title="fx1"〉〈/figure〉〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Faisal Jamil〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Pakistan faces the perennial issue of electricity theft. The issue deteriorates the financial outlook of utilities and is detrimental to investment in capacity improvement of electricity grid. The solution is generally sought through fiscal injection in capacity enhancement, demand-side management and rationing of electricity. This study investigates the key factors that contributes in electricity theft through structured questionnaires from residential electricity consumers of IESCO in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. A sample size comprise of both rural and urban respondents. The demographic profile and descriptive statistics are discussed. Most of the respondents agree that electricity price hike is the main contributor in rising theft. The crime is taking place with the connivance of bribe accepting utility employees. The correlation analysis is carried out and the data is further used for the empirical estimation of the model. The regression analysis employed key variables such as the conduct of utility employee, consumers’ satisfaction with the service, monitoring, overall consumer perception and the monthly expenses on electricity consumption. The results suggest that monitoring, conduct and monthly expenses variables are significant in explaining electricity theft. These finding suggest an increase in transparency and accountability and a decrease in tariffs to reduce pilferage.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jasmin Mahmoodi, Ashreeta Prasanna, Stefanie Hille, Martin K. Patel, Tobias Brosch〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Electrical utilities are a main stakeholder for achieving sustainable policy goals. Effective tariff designs that incentivize electricity savings among consumers can contribute to fulfilling these goals. Prior research suggests that penalties are more effective in promoting behavior change, which can be explained by insights from behavioral economics: Loss aversion describes that people react more strongly to losses (penalties) than to rewards of the same magnitude and go greater lengths to avoid them. However, in markets where consumers freely choose their preferred tariff, it remains a major challenge to persuade consumers to voluntarily subscribe to penalizing tariffs. The present study employed a choice experiment using choice-based conjoint analysis to examine consumer preferences for electricity tariffs that apply a combination of rewards and/or penalties for electricity consumption. Results from a representative sample of Swiss electricity consumers show that consumers prefer tariffs that reward decreases in electricity consumption, rather than tariffs that penalize increases in consumption, but that tariffs combining rewards and penalties achieve substantial potential market acceptance. Direct tariff attractiveness ratings additionally support these findings showing that consumers perceive combined Bonus-Malus tariffs as sufficiently attractive. Future research avenues and implications for marketing strategies and energy policies are discussed.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 124〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Tim Roesler, Markus Hassler〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Visions of alternative and more sustainable energy systems are commonly associated with the development and innovation of renewable energy technologies. Geels (2002) notes that regime transition is affected by a set of technological, socio-economic, organisational, political, institutional and region-specific dimensions that can be triggered by niche developments. Indeed, the transition toward a sustainable energy regime is strongly influenced by governance and regulatory frameworks extending from a global to a local scale, which set boundaries and incentives for the direction in which energy transition can evolve. Since 2007, several local initiatives have emerged in the county of Marburg-Biedenkopf in Germany promoting the use of biomass on a local scale. These initiatives successfully established locally owned cooperatives to run a decentralised heating supply infrastructure to supply their households. This paper highlights the role of multi-scalar policy processes that are allowing for the development of bioenergy villages and provides details on the role of regional and local policy processes. Supplementing the national policy framework with regional and local policy makers is a key factor in implementing bioenergy villages.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jing-Li Fan, Ling-Si Kong, Xian Zhang〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉A unified policy framework for energy and water would be beneficial considering the high interdependence of the two resources in China. In this paper, a recursive dynamic computable general equilibrium model is established to examine the existence of synergetic effects within water fee policy and energy related climate policy, i.e. carbon tax, and provide insights for Chinese integrative policy-making. The results show that water fee can contribute to industrial water conservation, whereas its effect is limited under current water fee level. The adoption of a carbon tax in addition to it might further improve its water saving benefits. Furthermore, water fee can also promote the enhancement of China's emission reduction goal, and a higher carbon tax and water fee rate can achieve greater emission reduction effects. At this point, the synergetic spillover effects that water conservation benefits will be achieved simultaneously via the transition of industry into a more low-carbon form is critical for elaborating an effective strategy of environmental policy. Besides, our results suggest that giving priority to renewable power is regarded as the silver bullet to address the water and emission constraints on energy system, as it can optimize the water conservation benefits of emission reduction.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Suani Teixeira Coelho, Alessandro Sanches-Pereira, Luís Gustavo Tudeschini, José Goldemberg〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In Brazil, there are almost ten million people relying on traditional use of biomass for cooking, which correspond to about five percent of the country's population. The vast majority lives in poor municipalities away from urban centers. The replacement of fuelwood for LPG is the result of an intense urbanization process and governmental intervention based on price regulation and subsidies. In 2015, the energy demand for cooking in the Brazilian households was 46 TJ, LPG covered 51% of the demand and the remaining 49% relied on fuelwood to supply the demand for energy. This study shows that there are enormous variations in the level of consumption and the types of fuels used due to the regional complexity of Brazil. In addition, it also shows the transition from fuelwood for cooking to modern fuels such as LPG does follow a consistent pattern in Brazil. Decisions related to energy consumption and fuel type are strongly influenced by accessibility, affordability and the convenience of the fuel.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Roberto Balado-Naves, José Francisco Baños-Pino, Matías Mayor〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉By considering spatial relationships, this study aims to analyse to what extent per capita CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 emissions are determined by renewable energy consumption, the share of the services sector in GDP, energy intensity and real per capita income. A panel data set composed of 173 countries over the 1990–2014 period is used to estimate an environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) augmented by neighbouring per capita income and energy intensity. Both standard and spatial forms are estimated for seven different sets of countries to assess the robustness of the results. Finally, several forecasts are performed to verify global sustainability and to provide some policy suggestions for the period 2015–2100. The empirical results indicate that (i) most areas support the standard EKC, (ii) there seems to be an inverted U-shaped relationship between neighbouring per capita income and national per capita emissions in Europe, Asia and the World as a whole, (iii) neighbouring energy intensity increases national per capita emissions, and (iv) forecasts show that economic growth will accelerate climate change. However, a steady annual growth in renewable energy consumption and a steady decrease in energy intensity, both close to 2.5%, may guarantee environmental sustainability prior to 2100.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Anna Ebers Broughel, Nina Hampl〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Small-scale investors are gaining recognition as a valuable source of private funding necessary for a successful energy transition. Still, there is limited knowledge about the characteristics of potential investors, especially in community renewable energy projects. This study intends to address this gap and investigates the impact of socio-demographic and socio-psychological characteristics on individuals’ willingness to invest in community renewable energy projects. Our investigation is based on two large-scale representative surveys of 2260 respondents in Austria and Switzerland. The majority of respondents would be willing to invest 1000 to 10,000 CHF/EUR in such a project, with higher amounts in the Swiss sample. Potential investors in Austria tend to be male homeowners with higher incomes, while Swiss investors are more educated. Generally, positive attitudes and beliefs related to renewable energy have a significant impact on investment intention. The largest group of potential investors in both countries can be described as ‘urban wind energy enthusiasts’, who show high acceptance of wind energy installations near their communities. Surprisingly, a significant segment of potential investors is skeptical of a nearby wind installation. Study results can be used by decision-makers to tailor appropriate policy measures and by project developers for communication of the project aims and benefits.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jakob Medick, Isabel Teichmann, Claudia Kemfert〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉We quantify the greenhouse-gas mitigation potential and carbon abatement costs if green waste in the metropolitan region of Berlin, Germany, is diverted from composting into the production of hydrothermally carbonized coal (HTC coal) that is used to substitute for hard coal in electricity and heat generation. Depending on the origin of the green waste, we specify an urban, a rural-urban, and a rural scenario. All scenarios combined can mitigate 70,511 metric tons (t) of carbon-dioxide equivalents (CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉e) per year. The carbon abatement costs reach 163 €/t CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉e in the urban scenario, 76 €/t CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉e in the rural-urban scenario, and 77 €/t CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉e in the rural scenario. The lower abatement costs in the latter two scenarios are mainly due to HTC-coal co-firing in an existing power plant rather than constructing a new biomass power plant for HTC-coal mono-firing as in the urban scenario. While the abatement costs exceed the current carbon prices, they compare more favorably with commonly assumed damage costs of unmitigated climate change. Thus, the public support of HTC coal could be considered, with the primary policy focus on HTC-coal co-firing. HTC-coal co-firing could also lower the emissions of existing power plants during the fossil-fuel phase-out.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Shen Liu, Gregory Colson, Michael Wetzstein〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉An investigation of Poisson type policy jumps on biodiesel investment considers the theory of investment under uncertainty. The analysis studies the probability of implementing a policy if it is not in effect and the probability of withdrawal if it is in effect. An application models the policy-switching regime of the discontinuous U.S. federal tax credit of $1.00 per gallon on biodiesel. Results support that time inconsistent government policies do lead to market uncertainty. The analysis reveals a pronounced negative impact on decisions to invest in a biodiesel refinery. Results do indicate a consistent policy-switching regime may not be that disruptive to the emerging biodiesel industry. It is policy uncertainty that drives the option-pricing thresholds and a consistent policy switching does not increase the uncertainty.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Iñigo Capellán-Pérez, Álvaro Campos-Celador, Jon Terés-Zubiaga〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Renewable Energy Sources (RES) offer a key transformative potential from a social point of view due to their modularity and capacity to generate energy at local level, allowing for the development of democratic and participative bottom-up initiatives. Spanish RES cooperatives, unlike other European countries, are few in number. Here, we review their development by applying the Multi-Level Perspective approach. Spanish RES cooperatives have recently come up against a hostile regulatory and economic context, which has induced specific organizational and operating structures such as the application of innovative participation methods and investment tools. Spanish RES cooperatives regularly collaborate in sharing learning processes and experiences, having also demonstrated their capacity to spread new ideas at both social and political levels. However, despite their growth and territorial spread over the last few years, RES cooperatives still have a minor presence in the Spanish energy system. Although some internal factors may limit their potential as an active instrument towards the transition to RES in the country, the regime's resistance is found to be the main barrier. This paper concludes with some recommendations for policy makers and RES cooperatives to enhance its potential role in the forthcoming energy transition process.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Fredrik Finjord, Verena Hagspiel, Maria Lavrutich, Marius Tangen〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In order to encourage investments in the most cost-effective renewable energy projects, Norway and Sweden have implemented a joint green certificate subsidy system, where the certificates are traded on a common market. The policies applied in the two countries, however, are not identical and differ most notably by the deadlines for receiving the subsidy. From the policy perspective, the important question is how these differences affect investment behavior in the renewable sector. This paper investigates the impact of the green certificate subsidy scheme on the value of renewable energy investments from the perspective of both Norwegian and Swedish investors based on a wind energy case study. We find that the impact of the policy is greatest when the distinctive Norwegian investment deadline is approaching, making investment optimal for the Norwegian investor for a larger range of prices. The Swedish investor, having no deadline to meet, will be more reluctant to investing. Furthermore, we find that the possibility of a collapse in the green certificate price reduces the values of the investment options. Being able to learn about the likelihood of such a price collapse leads to a small increase in the values of the options.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Robert Gross, Richard Hanna, Ajay Gambhir, Philip Heptonstall, Jamie Speirs〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Recent climate change initiatives, such as ‘Mission Innovation’ launched alongside the Paris Agreement in 2015, urge redoubled research into innovative low carbon technologies. However, climate change is an urgent problem – emissions reductions must take place rapidly throughout the coming decades. This raises an important question: how long might it take for individual technologies to emerge from research, find market opportunities and make a tangible impact on emissions reductions? Here, we consider historical evidence for the time a range of energy supply and energy end-use technologies have taken to emerge from invention, diffuse into the market and reach widespread deployment. We find considerable variation, from 20 to almost 70 years. Our findings suggest that the time needed for new technologies to achieve widespread deployment should not be overlooked, and that innovation policy should focus on accelerating the deployment of existing technologies as well as research into new ones.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 124〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jia-Jun Ma, Gang Du, Bai-Chen Xie〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉With the rapid development of economy, China's electric power consumption has increased sharply. Its carbon emissions derived from power generation now accounts for more than 45% of the national emissions. This study employs a structural decomposition analysis based on input-output subsystem model to explore sources for emissions increments in China's power sector from 2007 to 2015. Under this approach, the influential factors are classified into four categories. Quite a few scenarios are designed to further assess the impacts of power mix and the levy of carbon tax. The results show that the consumption is the main driving growth factor of CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 emissions, and most of the emissions are driven by continuing expansion of large-scale infrastructure, and this trend seems going to change in the future; carbon tax and price policies may be the alternative for reducing the emissions. In addition, both the generation efficiency and internal industrial structure are critical factors in emission reduction. Besides, cleaner energy sources effectively lead to carbon emission reduction but this change performs a relatively small effect. Finally, promoting the development of non-fossil energy power may lead to total CO〈sub〉2〈/sub〉 emissions perform decrease trend before 2030.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Sarah Royston, Jan Selby, Elizabeth Shove〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This article makes the case for a new and ambitious research and governance agenda for energy demand reduction. It argues that existing ‘demand-side’ approaches focused on promoting technological efficiency and informed individual consumption are unlikely to be adequate to achieving future carbon emissions reduction goals; it points out that very little attention has so far been paid to the impacts of non-energy policies on energy demand; and it submits that a much fuller integration of energy demand questions into policy is required. It advances a general framework, supported by illustrative examples, for understanding the impacts of ‘non-energy’ policies on energy demand. It reflects on why these connections have been so little explored and addressed within energy research and policy. And it argues that, for all their current ‘invisibility’, there is nonetheless scope for increasing the visibility of, and in effect ‘mainstreaming’, energy demand reduction objectives within other policy areas. Researchers and policymakers, we contend, need to develop better understandings of how energy demand might be made governable, and how non-energy policies might be revised, alone and in combination, to help steer long-term changes in energy demand.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Alexander Kaller, Samantha Bielen, Wim Marneffe〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The European electricity markets have been undergoing significant regulatory reforms since the introduction of the first liberalisation directive in 1996. Theory predicts that liberalisation promotes cost-efficient production and competition and hence leads to lower prices. The goal of this paper is to assess the impact of regulatory quality and non-compliance with the law on electricity prices in the context of electricity market reforms. We address problems of endogeneity by using the Blundell-Blond System GMM estimator and find that vertical integration and market concentration lower end-user prices, all else equal. Moreover, improving regulatory quality and reducing corruption, both have a negative impact on prices when holding other factors constant. The intensity of the reforms has limited impact on electricity prices when these reforms are introduced in an institutional environment characterised by high levels of corruption and low quality regulation.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Spyridon Karytsas〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Residential heating, cooling and Domestic Hot Water (DHW) production are responsible for a significant part of the residential energy consumption in Greece, which is currently based on the consumption of fossil fuels. A solution for the reduction of fossil fuel use -and all the negative effects that their use implies- is the application of renewable energy technologies, among which Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP) systems are included. The present study examined awareness and adoption intention issues concerning this technology in Greece, through the conduction of a questionnaire survey. Specifically, it investigated public's knowledge on issues involving this technology, intention of installing it in households, main information sources and installation barriers. Socioeconomic and residence characteristics, as well as consumers’ preferences and attitudes affecting the knowledge and adoption issues were examined. Factors affecting the subjects under investigation are gender, age, education level, environmentally friendly behavior and awareness, as well as having an occupation, studies or interests related to environment, technology or engineering. Additionally, the intention of installing a GSHP system is affected by specific household characteristics, infrastructure and consumers’ preferences on characteristics of heating systems. In order to promote GSHPs, suitable financial incentives, regulatory improvements and awareness activities are required.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Chunping Xie, Mengqi Bai, Xiaolei Wang〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The transport sector is attracting increasingly attention in the context of climate change and sustainable development, for its rapidly growing demand for energy and heavy reliance on oil products. Especially in China, where the demands for transportation are tremendous and ever-increasing, it is worthy to explore the provincial variations in energy efficiency in the transport sector, in order to enhance energy efficiency and to promote energy savings in this sector. By using stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) approach, this paper calculates the provincial energy efficiency as well as energy saving potential in China’s provincial transport sector over 2007–2016. Results suggest that China’s national average energy input efficiency in the transport industry is 0.673 during the sample period, which implied that relatively large degree of non-efficiency exists in this sector. Besides, the increase of government support (GS), the improvement of road condition (RC) and public transport (PT) are influencing factors for the improvement of China’s provincial energy efficiency in the transport industry. Additionally, energy saving potential in the transport sector is also estimated in this paper. It is shown that, although energy efficiency in the eastern China is the highest (much higher than the country-wide level), the estimated absolute amount of the energy saving potential in the eastern area is significantly larger than those in the central area and western area due to the fact that the eastern area contributes to the largest share of the total energy consumption in this sector.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Shiyu Liu, Zhaohong Bie, Jiang Lin, Xifan Wang〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In 2016, solar and wind energy production were greatly curtailed in China, especially in its northwestern region. This paper identifies administrative factors and market barriers as the main causes of renewable curtailment. In 2017, the Northwest Power Grid (NWPG) successfully implemented a variety of approaches to reduce wind and solar curtailment. In this paper, we analyze the change in power generation, expansion of renewable energy delivery, and electricity-replacement projects across provinces that occurred in 2017. While acknowledging the practical results of the NWPG's efforts, we identify challenges that the northwest still faces in integrating renewable energy. We argue that trans-regional administrative barriers are preventing the effective utilization of renewable energy nationwide. To address those barriers, we explore market-based mechanisms for promoting the integration of large-scale renewable energy. In addition to long-term contracts for renewable energy across provinces, both spot-market and the ancillary service market would facilitate the uptake of renewable energy. In addition, price signals should be used to guide peak shaving. Market mechanisms will be insightful to dissolve barriers and enhance utilization of renewable energy throughout the country.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Chad Walker, Laura Stephenson, Jamie Baxter〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Decades after wind energy has taken hold in many developed countries, social scientists are beginning to understand the complex story of what causes differentiated responses to local development. Transitions in this literature include moving from attitudinal factors, and the infamous Not in My Backyard (NIMBY) explanation, toward place attachment, environmental justice, and how policy development might shape support for wind turbines in rural communities. While this research has advanced our understanding of some of the major questions in this area, the political arena has largely remained implicit or in the background, rather than a specific area of detailed inquiry. Addressing this gap in the literature, we detail findings from our mixed method study of interviews (n = 54) and surveys (n = 240) with local residents, developers, and other stakeholders in Ontario and Nova Scotia, Canada. We focus on the interplay of partisanship and geography, and how together they can powerfully influence attitudes toward wind energy. Specifically, we extend the existing literature and argue that when parties politicize the issue of wind energy — especially within the context of an urban/rural divide — it becomes intertwined with elements of ideology which can amplify responses and further entrench local conflict.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Fredrik N.G. Andersson, Sonja Opper, Usman Khalid〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉In China, a large private sector has evolved alongside a still sizeable state-owned sector that is subject to government control. Several studies have found that in this mixed economy, the private sector is economically more efficient than the state-owned sector. In this paper, we investigate whether private firms are also more carbon efficient than state-owned firms. Using a macroeconomic panel data model with provincial data from 1992 to 2010, we confirm that private firms emit less carbon dioxide than state-owned firms. Our results imply that future reforms, such as ongoing privatization, introduced to increase the economic efficiency of state-owned companies will also mitigate emissions growth. The policy lesson, not only for China but for developing countries maintaining a large state-owned sector, is that economic efficiency and energy efficiency are conjoined mutual benefits.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Gilberto Gallopín〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The world system is at an uncertain branch point from which a wide range of possible, qualitatively different, futures could unfold before the end of the Century. Two decades ago, the Global Scenario Group (GSG) published three archetypical sets of scenarios of the future of the planet. These are revisited in the light of the changes and developments that happened since then, plus the emerging new trends, looking for meaningful early warning signals and potential strategic causal nodes that could help steering towards a sustainable global future.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Angineh Zohrabian, Kelly T. Sanders〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This study investigates how technological transitions across California's power sector have shifted its state-level carbon dioxide emissions and cooling water consumption intensities. Its ultimate goal is to evaluate how the state's climate mitigation and environmental policies have affected the power sector's vulnerability to extreme drought and how extreme drought has affected progress towards the state's climate mitigation priorities. The study analyzes the period spanning 2010–2016, which includes one of the state's most severe droughts on record. The results indicate that the growth of variable renewable energy generation has helped offset some of the negative consequences of drought, which include increased emissions and cooling water usage by natural gas generators during periods of low hydropower. However, the retirement of the San Onofre nuclear power plant has delayed the overall decarbonization of the state's power sector, and the closure of significant coastal power plant capacity could increase the freshwater consumption of the power sector if replacement capacity is not cooled with alternative cooling water sources or dry cooling systems. The noted tradeoffs between greenhouse gas mitigation priorities, freshwater dependency, and vulnerability to climatic events highlight the importance of holistic decision making as regional power grids transition to cleaner generation sources.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Kangyin Dong, Renjin Sun, Jin Wu, Gal Hochman〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This paper compares growth and development of natural gas markets in the United States and in China between 2000 and 2015. The results demonstrate that, for both countries, the level of development of the natural gas supply chain improved over time, although in recent years, growth in these markets has slowed down. The analysis also shows that while the focus in terms of development and growth for China is the downstream natural gas market, it is the upstream markets for the United States. The paper's analysis suggests that for China to improve growth and development of its natural gas industry, the country's policy should incentivize the development of production and transportation; the US, on the other hand, should allocate resources to the development of its pipeline distribution system.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Tae-hyeong Kwon〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉 〈p〉Governments provide various incentives for the production of electricity from renewable energy sources (RES-E). South Korea has promoted the use of such electricity through various programmes, such as Feed-in Tariff from 2002 to 2011, and Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) since 2012. The RPS appears to have been particularly effective in stimulating the use of RES-E. However, there remain several issues regarding the current RPS’ policy design. This study examines South Korea's RPS by focusing on two issues. The first issue is the regulation of technology competition under the RPS; and the second issue is risk mitigation, which is generally known as a weakness of the RPS policy.〈/p〉 〈p〉This study suggests that one option for addressing both these issues is a policy mix of RPS and long-term contract auctions with a sliding premium. In particular, a technology-specific auction can be a complement to the technology-neutral RPS, not only in terms of minimising risk, but also in terms of cost and dynamic efficiencies. The synergy effect between these two policies is expected to be more significant than alternative policy combinations.〈/p〉 〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Duy Nong〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The Vietnamese Government is proposing a new tax levy on either petroleum products or coal, or both. That is, the Government expects to increase the current tax rates to the maximum levels set previously. In this instance, the tax on coal is intended to increase by 50%, while the tax on petroleum products is intended to increase by 33.33%. This study employs a computable general equilibrium model to assess the effects of these increases in taxes on the Vietnamese economy, focusing on energy, transportation, and the private sectors. Results show that an increase in tax on petroleum products will considerably affect the country with a reduction of real GDP by 1.99%. Exports and imports are also highly unfavorably affected. In this instance, the total emission level will be reduced by 7.12%. The increased tax on coal, however, will allow Vietnam to experience much lower unfavorable effects, while being able to cut a substantial amount of the emission level. For example, real GDP would only decline by 0.51%, while total emission level will be reduced by 10.25%. If these taxes are increased together, Vietnam will experience considerable contractions in the economy, but it is able to reduce a substantial emission level.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Paolo Mastropietro, Fulvio Fontini, Pablo Rodilla, Carlos Batlle〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Italy is currently implementing a Capacity Remuneration Mechanism (CRM) in a power sector that is paradoxically characterised, at least for the time being, by a significant overcapacity. This article aims at building a critical review of the Italian CRM design. It first presents the Italian context, explaining how the discussion started more than a decade ago and how it evolved since then. Then, it provides an in-depth description and critical analysis of the mechanism under proposal, based on its main design elements, keeping always as a reference the guidelines issued by the European Commission on CRMs. Many valuable lessons can be extracted from the Italian experience to shed light on other similar processes currently under development.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Simone Fobi, Varun Deshpande, Samson Ondiek, Vijay Modi, Jay Taneja〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉During the past 5 years, electrification in Kenya has grown by more than 30% due primarily to increases in grid penetration and solar home systems. This represents a way forward for governments, international finance institutions, and entrepreneurs to address some of the challenges of energy access. However, little is understood about how consumption has evolved among these newly-electrified customers. In this paper, we address this by conducting a longitudinal analysis for 136k utility customers across Kenya over six years of electricity bills, uncovering critical trends in spatio-temporal evolution of electricity consumption. Our analysis reveals that recently-electrified customers are reaching their steady-state consumption more quickly than previous customers, that the steady-state is increasingly less, and that typical urban and peri-urban customers tend to consume 50% more electricity than rural customers. In addition we present implications for policymakers and electricity planners considering grid extension and distributed systems for improving electrification.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Energy Policy, Volume 123〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Michel Zimmermann, Steve Pye〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The decarbonisation of the UK economy requires a myriad of policies that inherently produce winners and loser across society. This study investigates how such distributional impacts are considered in the appraisal process for UK energy and climate policies. Using a scorecard developed to capture the guidance on policy appraisal and distributional analysis, 79 impact assessments were evaluated. The majority of these impact assessments either did not or only partially considered the impacts of policies on vulnerable groups in society, with only eight assessments containing more detailed distributional analysis. Moreover, a bias seems to exist as to which areas of energy and climate policy provide well-founded analysis and which do not. With further insights gained from interviews with relevant actors, this research concludes that political motivation, analytical difficulties and a lack of awareness of the prevalence and importance of distributional impacts are at the root of this insufficient consideration. Possible alterations to the current IA framework are presented, which aim to more firmly embed the distributional impact assessment in the appraisal process.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Xavier Tezzo, Ben Belton, Gareth Johnstone, Martin Callow〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Myanmar's fisheries are among the most important globally but remain some of the least documented. The fisheries sector occupies an important place in Myanmar's economy and culture, and is set to change rapidly as the country enters a period of unprecedented political and economic transition. Building on a unique set of information sources, this article presents a broad view of the current state of knowledge on governance, livelihoods, production and supply chains across Myanmar's three main fishery sub-sectors (marine capture, inland capture, and aquaculture). The analysis is contextualized with a review of major changes in the country's policy history affecting fisheries. It is argued that Myanmar's fisheries now sit at a potential cross-road in terms of their governance. Taking advantage of Myanmar's latecomer position in its current transition, this article draws parallels with regional experiences to outline sectoral recommendations for policy reform.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 21 September 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Stefan Bräger, Gabriela Q. Romero Rodriguez, Sandor Mulsow〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Up to September 2018, the International Seabed Authority has issued a total of 100 mandatory requirements (published between 2011 and 2015) as guidance for potential future miners when collecting data for their environmental baseline studies during the exploration phase. An in-depth analysis of all current requirements highlights twelve themes covered by multiple requirements: methodology for seabed sampling, methodology for water column sampling, statistical evidence, spatio-temporal considerations, toxicology, modelling needs, genetic studies, species-specificity, documentation and archival storage, impact-related studies, area-based management tools, and comparison and assessment. Within each theme, the relevant requirements are compared with each other to allow a comprehensive assessment of the research effort needed to satisfy all of the 100 requirements.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Charlotte Šunde, Jim Sinner, Marc Tadaki, Janet Stephenson, Bruce Glavovic, Shaun Awatere, Annabelle Giorgetti, Nick Lewis, Aneika Young, Kai Chan〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Valuation encompasses far more than the practice of estimating the financial value of environmental services and changes. It extends to almost any socio-political process in which local actors seek to shape the development of their places and environments by describing what matters about these places. This paper draws on diverse engagements with participants involved in high-profile marine development decisions in New Zealand to examine value-articulating institutions (VAIs), i.e., the formal and informal ways that values of affected parties are elicited, received and evaluated by decision-makers. Our study shows that formal VAIs can be alienating for many participants, demanding huge investments of time and personal sacrifices, demoralising members of communities when their local knowledge and expertise is delegitimised. Such processes can leave communities shaken, conflict-riven and unhappy, and undermine the legitimacy of democratic institutions. All VAIs are imperfect – using informal along with formal VAIs can provide alternative spaces for people to present and describe their values. The paper describes in situ experiences that provide an informal alternative to more formal VAIs.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Sam Grönholm〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉 〈p〉Network governance signifies a move towards plural modes of governing, where informal, flexible and adaptive collaborative structures are emphasized to govern policy complexities. These are viewed as fostering efficient and innovative governance responses. The aim of this article is to contribute to the understanding of the operative features of this system, relative to its capacity to govern BSR challenges.〈/p〉 〈p〉This article suggests that BSR network governance is ill equipped to effectively govern policy complexities from a functional perspective. Although BSR networks operating space is congruent with the problem space, their operational cooperation space is limited by internal horizontal interactions. Networks are unprepared for routinized cross-sector and cross-level cooperation, with the view to expand the problem solving capacity. Cooperation across networks, which could integrate the distributed capacities of BSR policy-making, occurs on an ad-hoc basis and is guided by temporal projects. Projects are normative responses to enable cooperation across networks.〈/p〉 〈p〉BSR network based governance accentuates temporal governance features. It represents a move towards short-termism, advancing non-permanent features, which is at odds with longer-term activities and policy objectives required by BSR challenges. BSR project proliferation decreases the transparency and expands the temporal differentiation, contributing to a desynchronization and a fragmentation in the region. The result is less transparent network governance, causing friction in relation to the stability, coherence and continuity of activities. This not only hampers the efforts to coordinate cooperation activities; it is also detrimental when attempting to govern the complex policy challenges of the region.〈/p〉 〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Sam Fraser-Baxter, Fabien Medvecky〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉During 2015, New South Wales (N.S.W), Australia experienced an unprecedented spike in human-shark interactions. These interactions saw the escalation of public anxieties surrounding water safety and the implementation of the state's $16 m Shark Management Strategy. Of the 14 human-shark interactions that occurred in N.S.W, eight were recorded on the state's North Coast. The interactions ignited considerable public debate, which sought to explain the spike in interactions and how to best manage the risk of human-shark interaction. This controversy was documented by the media. This study takes its lead from McCagh et. al (2015) to examine the media's reporting of public and political response to human-shark interactions in N.S.W. Discourse analysis was used to investigate two newspaper's reportage of human-shark interactions on the North Coast. This paper outlines that the discourse used by the media examined was not fear-laden, sensationalized or emotive, which previous studies have emphasized. It highlights the importance of investigating local media as means of investigating public and political response to environmental issues. The W.A shark cull seems to be a turning point in public and political attitudes towards shark management. The N.S.W government did not offer lethal or seemingly knee-jerk policy, but insisted on the investigation of non-lethal, scientifically and conservationally focused management. The N.S.W government appeared to be successful in consulting the local community and delivering policy that reflects the values and interests of the North Coast public. Our research reflects Neff & Wynter's (2018a) suggestion that the ‘save the sharks’ movement has indeed arrived.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 28 September 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Neil Craik〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The presence of scientific uncertainty in relation to the ecological impacts of deep seabed mining has led to increased interest in the use of adaptive management as part of the environmental regulatory structure for the deep seabed mineral exploitation regime. This paper assesses the prospects for using adaptive management as part of the deep seabed mining regulatory framework with a specific focus on the legal and institutional dimensions of the regime. In this regard, this paper argues that adaptive management is likely to play a crucial role in the deep seabed mining regime owing to the current uncertain state of knowledge respecting the deep seabed environmental well as the ambiguity surrounding the standards respecting the acceptable levels of harm associated with deep seabed mining. However, despite the high demand for adaptive management, institutional arrangements, such as the need for the ISA to meet its due diligence obligations and strong security of tenure protections, may constrain the ISA in implementing adaptive management approaches. More broadly, this paper seeks to contribute to our understanding of the unique legal nature of the ISA as a front line resource regulator operating within the system of international law.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Frank Stuer-Lauridsen, Guillaume Drillet, Flemming Thorbjørn Hansen, Justine Saunders〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Same Risk Area refers to an area-based approach for the risk assessment of aquatic invasive species that considers the extent of natural dispersal. It is a new addition to the Guidelines on Risk Assessment (G7) under the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments. The method outlined here to define the extent of a Same Risk Area assesses the connectivity of species of concern within a wider area by combining information from simulated hydrodynamic data and agent-based modelling with the biological traits and habitat preferences of the selected target species.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Alessandro Lucchetti, Andrea Belardinelli, Lorenzo D’Andrea, Bojan Marčeta, Michela Martinelli, Tommaso Russo, Vanja Čikeš Keč, Barbara Zorica, Massimo Virgili〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉A number of restrictions envisaged by Council Regulation 1967/2006 (Mediterranean Regulation, MR) have been introduced to reduce the fishing effort and the catch of juveniles in the Mediterranean Sea. A large proportion of the purse seiners of the Adriatic fleet that target small pelagic species may be using gear that does not comply with regulatory provisions. This study provides a thorough overview on Adriatic purse seine designs and fishing practices. Moreover, since no detailed information was available about their environmental impact, an ad hoc study was also performed to examine the issue in relation to Mediterranean Regulation provisions. Analysis of the technical data confirmed the vast majority of the nets used by the Adriatic purse seine fleet do not comply with regulatory provisions. However, data analysis highlighted that the technical features and operational characteristics of these fisheries do not justify the application of MR restrictions. In fact, i) spatial analysis of the fishing effort demonstrated that purse seiners operate more than 3 nautical miles off the coast, i.e. further than the area covered by the restrictions; and ii) data from sensors and video cameras documented that purse seines do not exert adverse impacts on critical habitats such as 〈em〉Posidonia〈/em〉 meadows and that the groundrope impact on the seabed is so slight and short-lived as to be negligible. Moreover, the extensive changes required to make purse seines compliant with the MR would entail steep costs and would ultimately render the nets unsuitable for commercial fishing, thus involving highly negative socioeconomic consequences.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Edward A. Willsteed, Silvana N.R. Birchenough, Andrew B. Gill, Simon Jude〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Cumulative effects assessments are a legal requirement in many jurisdictions and are key to informing marine policy. However, practice does not yet deliver fit-for-purpose assessments relative to sustainable development and environmental protection obligations. The complexity of cumulative effect questions, which are embedded in complex social-ecological systems, makes multiple, methodologically diverse assessments a necessity. Using the expansion of marine renewable energy developments in European Union waters as a case study, this paper explores how social-ecological systems thinking and cumulative effects assessment theory can combine to structure CEAs that better support the management and regulation of maritime activities at regional scales. A general perspective for cumulative effects assessment is proposed to remove ambiguity of intent and to orient assessments towards a common objective. Candidate principles for practice are presented for consideration. These principles are integrated into a stepped assessment approach that seeks to improve cumulative effects assessments of localised activities relative to the information needs of decision-makers implementing the ecosystem approach.〈/p〉〈/div〉 〈h5〉Graphical abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉〈figure〉〈img src="https://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0308597X18305256-fx1.jpg" width="433" alt="fx1" title="fx1"〉〈/figure〉〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Angela Carpenter, Rebecca Shellock, Robin von Haartman, Steve Fletcher, Gillian Glegg〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The English Channel region is an area of high conservational importance, as well being a contributor to economic prosperity, social well-being and quality of life of the people living around it. There is a need to incorporate societal elements into marine and coastal governance, to improve management of the Channel ecosystem. Public Perception Research (PPR) is a relatively unexplored dimension of marine science, with limited research at the scale of the Channel region. Using an online survey, this study examined the public's use of, and funding priorities for, the Channel's marine and coastal environment. It revealed that there are variations in how the English and French coastlines are used. Environmental issues were generally viewed as being more important than economic ones. Country-level differences were observed for public uses of, and priorities for the Channel region. Cleaner water and beaches, and improved coastal flood defences, were more highly prioritised by English respondents, while offshore renewable energy and sustainability of businesses were more highly prioritised by French respondents. The paper contributes to the debate on the value of PPR by addressing evidence gaps in the English Channel region, and to PPR literature more broadly. It provides baseline data to inform future engagement strategies for the marine and coastal governance of the Channel region specifically. It also identifies how this type of research has implications for the wider marine and coastal environment, including contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 14 on conserving and sustainably using the oceans, seas, and marine resources.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Peter F. Worcester, James H. Miller, Kathleen J. Vigness-Raposa〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The paper by Kaplan and Solomon [Marine Policy 73 (Supplement C) (2016) 119–121] examines the current and future maximum noise capacity of the global commercial shipping fleet. While we do not dispute that the number of ships and the total ton-miles of cargo carried will continue to increase, we find that the metrics computed in the paper are flawed and do not help assess the potential impact on marine life.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Hugo M. Ballesteros, Gonzalo Rodríguez-Rodríguez〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This work is an in-depth look at the acceptance of poaching in Galicia, exploring the role of the community in tolerating acts of non-compliance with shellfishing regulations in Noia, (Galicia, Northwest of Spain). Tolerated non-compliance attitudes were identified and as a result it was possible to define the motivations behind poaching and which individuals are potentially acceptable in the target community. It was concluded that formal access and withdrawal property rights to shellfishing resources are only granted by the formal users of the resources under certain circumstances, but, fundamentally, only to individuals who are recognised as belonging to the community. To this regard, the concept of community is what sustains the possibilities of co-managing the resources and the acceptance of certain shellfish poaching acts within the community in question. Once the possibility of acceptance was established, the perceptions of the shellfish harvesters were used to measure tolerance towards poaching by asking the following question: Up to what point can poaching be tolerable? The information used in this work was collected in 95 surveys carried out between February and April 2017.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Aron Westholm〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The ecosystem approach has become a common tool in environmental governance over the last decade. Within the EU context, this is most clearly accentuated through the adoption of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the Directive on Maritime Spatial Planning, that both include requirements for Member States to apply the approach. This paper examines the organization of marine spatial planning (MSP) by the EU countries in the Baltic Sea Region in terms of management levels and geographic delimitations. The research shows that there is no consistent interpretation of what is the appropriate level of management, or ecosystem scale. These findings are used to inform a discussion on the application of the ecosystem approach in the countries around the Baltic Sea, and its effect on the potential of transboundary cooperation initiatives.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Carla Mouro, Tânia Santos, Paula Castro〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Today artisanal fishers working in 〈em〉Natura 2000〈/em〉 coastal protected sites face two major types of change: in marine resources, and the governance of their professions. Such transformations affect fishers’ livelihoods, identities and traditions, yet little is known about how these professionals elaborate on these changes – i.e., as continuities or discontinuities - in the narratives they produce as a group. Interviews and focus-groups with artisanal fishers and shellfish harvesters (n = 36) from the Portuguese Southwest coast were subjected to a two-step analysis. First, a textual analysis with 〈em〉Iramuteq〈/em〉 helped select the themes directly related to marine resources and governance. Second, three main narratives - on algae, barnacles and fish - were reconstructed. These were then explored regarding: (1) narrative formats (stability, regressive, progressive, mixed); (2) whether/how these formats elaborated changes as continuities or discontinuities; (3) the roles attributed to Self and Others, and whether and how these legitimized the laws, opening avenues for change; and (4) whether narratives were unified or fragmented. This study illustrates how transformations are presented through various combinations of narrative formats, sometimes mobilized to resist and other times to legitimate legal institutional change. It shows how institutional change can be integrated into local narratives as a positive contribution through a process that implies re-constructing the collective identity and local traditions. Through a narrative approach, this paper offers an integrated examination of fishers’ concerns towards their professions and the laws regulating them, and provides useful insight into how and when marine governance is more/less likely to be legitimized.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Antonia Leroy, Michel Morin〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Throughout the last several decades, the Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs) have become essential bodies for the management of the fisheries resources. However, the state of fish stocks that are fished in the high seas seem even more critical for some species. That situation put into question the functioning of the RFMOs where decisions adopted have not been stringent enough to tackle the overexploitation of many fish stocks. When states are establishing RFMOs’ conventions they have to fulfil their duty to co-operate while applying the principle of consent, a basic principle in international law. This has led states to setting up various decision-making processes within RFMOs. The paper shows that a better tailored decision-making process for RFMOs is needed so as to bring changes in them to comply with the objectives set out in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, i.e. maintain or restore populations of harvested species at levels which can produce the maximum sustainable yield. With that aim, the analysis defines three principles to evaluate the effectiveness of the decision-making procedure in RFMOs; 1) blocking or opting-out behaviours constrained, 2) transparency in the objection procedure, 3) conservation and management measures, including the related dispute resolution process, adopted in a timely manner. In line with these three principles, after considering the example of 12 main RFMOs, the study concludes that among them, the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organization (SPRFMO) has developed the most advanced and innovative decision-making mechanism.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Taye Famuditi, Malcolm Bray, Jonathan Potts, Brian Baily, Robert Inkpen〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Changes in UK government coastal and flooding policies in the last twenty-five years, have resulted in a reappraisal of all coastal defence schemes with a focus on a strategic analysis to ensure that all schemes provided the greatest net benefit. This strategy and the emphasis on adaptive management, particularly in the second wave of shoreline management plans (SMPs), provoked a reaction from local communities who felt their voice was largely being ignored as they became aware of SMP policies that increased their perceived risks but did not offer appropriate compensation. The formation of Coastal Action Groups (CAGs), has been a key community response and enabled diverse communities to feel that they can collectively participate in the ongoing planning process. Using a combination of questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews, this paper analyses the nature and effectiveness of CAGs. Although initially formed as opposition groups, the shared ideology of CAG members has resulted in the character of these groups evolving to units that embrace a broader range of social justice issues. It is argued that well led, well-supported, well-resourced and tactically astute CAGs have tended to be the most effective pressure groups. In reality however, CAGs have had relatively limited effects in changing the decisions of local SMPs, but have had great impacts in challenging the concept of meaningful public engagement in the coastal planning process, ultimately leading to more participatory approaches.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 18 September 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Leonardus J. Gerber, Renée L. Grogan〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Advances and innovation in deep-water technologies have fuelled a rapid and increased interest in the commercial exploitation of deep seabed minerals. Notwithstanding the apparent momentum in this sector, numerous regulatory, technical and environmental challenges remain. The latter, in particular, solicits on-going concern amongst various stakeholders due to the potential impact of mineral exploitation on the deep-sea environment. The organisation tasked with the management and control of mineral-related activities in international waters, the ‘International Seabed Authority' (ISA), is mandated to develop ‘the mining code’, a body of international rules, regulations and procedures that will regulate prospecting, exploration and exploitation in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Accordingly, the aim of this article is to provide a critical assessment of two commonly invoked, yet often ambiguous, concepts in this regulatory discourse – that being ‘Best Environmental Practice’ and ‘Good Industry Practice’. The paper draws on a comparative evaluation of these concepts in established international guidance standards, in order to highlight certain considerations for the practical implementation thereof for the deep seabed mining industry. In doing so, the research provides policy and theoretical contributions to the field of natural resources regulation. It further enhances the understanding of a critical component to the sustainable operationalisation of the industry, whilst acknowledging the unique environmental protection requirements associated with the deep seabed environment.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Laetitia Nunny, Mark P. Simmonds, Andrew Butterworth〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Seals are killed in a number of European countries and regions for commercial, management and recreational reasons. This is the first review to make a comparison across different nations, and it reveals that a variety of methods are employed, including the use of firearms, clubs, netting and harpoons. There is disparity in terms of which firearms and ammunition may be used and what, if any, training is required in killing methods. Seal killing presents serious animal welfare challenges and this may be exacerbated in some cases by the absence of close seasons, the practice of shooting from moving platforms or when conditions are suboptimal, and the use of nets. The introduction of internationally agreed standards could help ensure that welfare is paramount in seal management, legislation and practice. If lethal control measures are to continue, then good practice should include the annual training and assessment of hunters, the implementation and enforcement of relevant legislation, increased effort to improve the efficiency of killing (including the assessment of this through the expert and independent examination of carcasses), and minimising conflict by locating fish farms away from core seal habitat.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 29 June 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): S. Venturini, F. Massa, M. Castellano, G. Fanciulli, P. Povero〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Recreational boating is a significant nature-based activity, which is especially popular in the Mediterranean region. This study analyses this activity in the last decade in the Portofino MPA, a popular recreational boating area in the Ligurian Region (northwest of the Italian peninsula) in order to evaluate the maximum turnout and to provide management considerations to better achieve conservation and environmental management of a MPA. Monitoring activities were carried out during the summer from 2006 to 2016 and allowed locating the most critical sectors of MPA in consideration of different factors and kinds of boats. From the results of this long-term monitoring, the first conducted in Italy, it is evident that only some anchoring sectors of the Portofino MPA may suffer impacts from recreational boating and that the boats have different spatial and temporal distribution depending on the different summer months, on the public holidays and on weather conditions which mainly affect the boats units 〈 10 m (73% of the monitored boats). Due to direct impact of the anchorage on the seafloor, which hosts peculiar natural habitats, and the fairly constant presence of the recreational boaters over the years, different solutions for better protect the seabed without excessively prejudicing the enjoyment of recreational boating are discussed. Since the San Fruttuoso seagrass-friendly mooring area is one of the most visited sectors in the MPA, an increase in the number of seagrass-friendly moorings combined with a higher delimitation of the areas with special habitats may represent an optimal strategy.〈/p〉〈/div〉 〈h5〉Graphical abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉〈figure〉〈img src="https://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0308597X17306942-fx1.jpg" width="500" alt="fx1" title="fx1"〉〈/figure〉〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): David Langlet〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Recent decades have seen an increasing emphasis on (re)structuring marine governance regulation to fit relevant natural systems in terms of scale and spatial scope, and thus also on the delimitation of spatial units. Being at the heart of ecosystem based management, this focus on the relationship between scale and space in nature and in regulatory systems necessitates an increased awareness of the use of spatial and scale-related concepts in marine governance regulation. Using the regulatory context of the Baltic Sea as the focal point, this article examines concepts central to marine governance such as ‘ecosystem’, ‘water body’ and ‘marine waters’. It investigates how changes in the physical environment are reflected in the legal concepts, but also how these concepts affect the understanding or definition of the ‘natural’ phenomena ostensibly representing the scales on which the regulatory system should be premised.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Sarah R. Sutcliffe, Michele L. Barnes〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Policies to conserve sharks have generally struggled to gain broad public support. Ecotourism programs have been suggested as a way to promote support for conservation by increasing participants’ knowledge of ecology, fostering positive environmental attitudes, and driving increases in conservation behaviour. Yet the evidence is mixed, and some argue that its effectiveness is constrained by the “ceiling effect”, i.e., people attracted to ecotourism programs are already environmentally minded, thus their participation does not result in meaningful conservation gains. Surveys of 547 tour participants in a cage free shark diving ecotourism program and 488 members of the general public were conducted in Hawaii to test whether the program resulted in conservation benefits or whether it was constrained by the ceiling effect. The results show evidence of the ceiling effect, suggesting that the program is attracting more environmentally minded participants. Despite this, tour participants reported a significant increase in knowledge regarding the ecological role of sharks and improved attitudes towards sharks after the tour compared to before. Critically, once responses from tour participants and the general public were pooled and previous engagement in conservation was controlled for, participation in the tour still had a significant positive effect on intentions to engage in shark conservation in the future, suggesting that the program does result in meaningful conservation gains. The usefulness of the information provided on the tour in addition to participants’ age, gender, and satisfaction with the tour all played a role in determining its effectiveness as a conservation strategy.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Jerneja Penca〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉This note explores the EU's Plastics Strategy as a policy document by considering its implications for the environment, with a particular focus on marine ecosystems. The strategy anticipates a set of concrete, mostly regulatory, measures across multiple economic sectors. By shifting from a linear model, with its constant leakages of waste into natural systems, to the circular one, the EU demonstrates a decisive ambition in changing the course of the plastics treatment around the world and addressing global marine litter. Despite being an EU internal document, the strategy is likely to stimulate more rigorous approaches of individual countries, influence the global policy processes that address marine litter and create a transformation across supply chains. The challenge in the circular model is to not divert from the legal commitment to the waste hierarchy.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: Available online 1 December 2017〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Stephen Long, Peter J.S. Jones, Zoavina Randriana, Jeneen Hadj-Hammou〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉The Marine Protected Area Governance (MPAG) framework was developed to offer a structured, empirical approach for analysing governance and has been applied to marine prottabected areas (MPAs) around the world. This study sees the novel application of the MPAG framework to a small-scale mangrove crab fishery in northwest Madagascar. The country typifies developing country environmental governance challenges, due to its poverty, political instability and lack of state capacity, with bottom-up approaches often identified as a potential solution. In this context, small-scale fisheries (SSF) play a vital role in food security and poverty alleviation but are vulnerable to over-exploitation. The case study examines community-based management, including the role of three nascent fishing association managing portions of the fishery, within a mangrove ecosystem. Despite issues with underrepresentation of fishers in local resource management organizations that have partial responsibility for the mangrove habitats, some management measures and incentives have been applied, including the replantation of mangroves and fishery-wide gear restrictions. However, the analysis highlights market forces and migration are drivers with negative synergistic effects that cannot be controlled by bottom-up management. Incentives identified as needed or in need or strengthening require the support of external actors, the state, industry and or NGO(s). Thus, governance approaches should seek integration and move away from polarised solutions (top-down vs- bottom-up). As shown by other MPAG case studies, effective governance is dependent on achieving ‘resilience through diversity’, in terms of the diversity of both the actors and the incentives they are able to collectively employ.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: December 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 98〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Savitri Jetoo〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Nutrient enrichment of water bodies is one of the greatest stressors facing aquatic ecosystems worldwide. It is a problem faced in the Baltic Sea in Europe and the Laurentian Great Lakes in North America. Whilst progress was made in the Great Lakes during the 1990s to restore resiliency to the ecosystem, it is still a challenge in both basins today. This problem has been traced to a failure of governance, where traditional forms of government and legal steering have been unable to reduce nutrient inputs to the most polluted areas of the North American Great Lakes and the Baltic Sea. As such, governance innovations are needed to reduce nutrient inputs from agriculture and wastewater treatment plants, two of the biggest sources of land-based nutrients into these water bodies. Whilst a lot of the literature has focused on documenting the problems, there has been little attention on documenting novel governance innovations that have been working across scales to build adaptive capacity to nutrient abatement. This article fills this gap in the literature by looking at novel governance innovations across scales in the multi-level governance framework setting of the North American Great Lakes and the Baltic Sea steering mechanisms. It asks the question of what are the roles of actors other than the government in nutrient abatement. It examines innovations in governance by highlighting the role of new actors in building adaptive capacity through a focus on these determinants: public participation, science, networks, leadership, flexibility and resources.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): 〈/p〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Madeleine Gustavsson〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Research has suggested there is a need for an increased attention to the socio-cultural lifeworlds of fishers and fisheries and its importance for fisheries management. An emerging response to this call has been to examine the social and cultural contexts of ‘good fishing’ – an idea which, drawing on the work of Pierre Bourdieu, has sought to move the discussion beyond simply the economic aspects of fishing to also understand the importance of other forms of capital. Utilising these concepts together with the conceptual idea of ‘knowledge cultures’, the following paper examines the ‘cultural sustainability’ of different ways of governing fishing practices – in particular Marine Conservation Zones and voluntary lobster v-notching using a case study approach to the small-scale fishery of Llŷn peninsula, North Wales (UK). The paper observes that those approaches that allow fishers to demonstrate skills and recognises the temporal contingency of fishing lives can be considered more culturally sustainable than others. This paper also notes that culturally acceptable changes to fishing practices can be supported by fishing regulations and, the paper suggests, such innovations are more likely to be taken up by fishers in their everyday fishing practices. The paper recommends that policies seeking to alter fishing practices consider: i) the importance fishers’ hold in demonstrating their skills; ii) how social relations are as important as economic aspects to fishers’ long-term uptake of new practices; and iii) how the past and the future (such as if a successor is present) holds significance for fishers’ actions in the present.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: November 2018〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 97〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Mia Pihlajamäki, Simo Sarkki, Päivi Haapasaari〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉One of the objectives of the EU Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is to increase the contribution of fisheries to fish food availability and self-sufficiency. Still, the use of catch is often a secondary concern in fisheries governance and management – or not a concern at all – while the focus is on harvesting. This paper examines how the use of forage fish for human consumption can be increased within the limits of sustainability, using Baltic herring as a case study. Baltic herring contains high levels of dioxins and the human consumption is very low: the catches are mostly used for industrial purposes. The paper uses a participatory backcasting exercise to define a desirable future vision for the use of Baltic herring catch and to develop pathways of actor-specific governance actions to increase the use of the fish as a safe-to-eat food. The results reveal that increasing the contribution of forage fish, such as Baltic herring, to food security entails a paradigm shift in fisheries governance that involves 1) inclusion of well-defined objectives for catch use in the EU CFP and the related regional multiannual plans, 2) broadening the scope of the MSY-driven governance and management to one that addresses catch use, and 3) proactive catch use governance.〈/p〉〈/div〉

Description: 〈p〉Publication date: January 2019〈/p〉 〈p〉〈b〉Source:〈/b〉 Marine Policy, Volume 99〈/p〉 〈p〉Author(s): Rosana Escobar, Andrea Luna-Acosta, Susana Caballero〈/p〉 〈h5〉Abstract〈/h5〉 〈div〉〈p〉Human communities living around Cartagena Bay (Colombian Caribbean) depend on fishing activities as their main income and food source. This resource has been affected by pollution, sedimentation and overfishing. DNA barcoding was used for fish species identification, and the genetic diversity and population structure of two valued fish genera, snappers (〈em〉Lutjanus〈/em〉 spp.) and jacks (〈em〉Caranx〈/em〉 spp.) from the main fishing grounds in the area was evaluated. Fishermen collected tissue samples and measured size and weight and capture location for each fish. A 700 base pairs (bp) fragment of the mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) was sequenced for 104 samples (55 snappers and 49 jacks). Comparisons against Genbank allowed identification of eight species: 〈em〉Lutjanus synagris, L. apodus, L. jocu, L. cyanopterus, L〈/em〉. 〈em〉analis, Caranx hippos, C. latus〈/em〉 and 〈em〉C. crysos〈/em〉. Genetic diversity for the fish around the Colombian Caribbean sampling locations was relatively high in comparison to those of other populations and population differentiation was significant for some species, particularly for 〈em〉L〈/em〉. 〈em〉synagris〈/em〉 and 〈em〉L〈/em〉. 〈em〉apodus〈/em〉, suggesting that the fish from the Colombian Caribbean belong to an independent stock. Mean body length for all species was significantly smaller than body length at maturity, indicating that all fish captured were immature. Levels of genetic diversity appear to be high in these fish populations. The fact that fishermen are capturing immature fish is worrisome, suggesting the need to improve management of fish populations and the need to include the communities in conservation planning for the Islas del Rosario National Natural Park.〈/p〉〈/div〉