What is it about?
This paper reports on a large-scale internet survey of the European public regarding perceptions of traditional aquaculture and a new aquaculture method called 'integrated multi-trophic aquaulture' (IMTA).
Featured Image
Why is it important?
One of the key challenges that the world currently faces is food security. Aquaculture, a recent addition to the food production sector, is increasingly contributing towards addressing this challenge. As the population grows, aquaculture must expand to meet the protein requirements of humans. However, for aquaculture to expand, it must be acceptable. It is imperative that we understand the perceptions of the population in order to address concerns and enable the continued expansion of this industry.
Perspectives
Two results of this study surprised me: 1. most respondents did not have negative perceptions of aquaculture; and 2. level of knowledge regarding aquaculture was generally low. These results appear to be counter to perceptions held by both the industry and those who make decisions regarding aquaculture developments. However, having recently watched an 'investigative journalism' documentary on the aquaculture industry in Tasmania, and watched live public responses on twitter, the latter finding was again apparent. For me, this clarified for me the critical nature of science communication on aquaculture.
Dr Karen A Alexander
University of Tasmania
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Navigating uncertain waters: European public perceptions of integrated multi trophic aquaculture (IMTA), Environmental Science & Policy, July 2016, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.envsci.2016.04.020.
You can read the full text:
Contributors
The following have contributed to this page
