What is it about?
Development of offshore renewable energy will have implications for the fishing industry. This publication describes the results of a survey of Scottish fishermen, identifying their attitudes towards offshore renewable energy. The factors which influence these attitudes are also outlined.
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Why is it important?
Fishers have historically been a powerful lobby group who can influence the success of many aspects of marine management. Articles published in fishing media around issues of compensation and possible injunctions suggest they may influence the success of offshore developments also. Understanding fisher attitudes and the factors which drive these attitudes may help to resolve potential conflicts before they arise.
Perspectives
The majority of fishermen (in Scotland at least) do not hold negative attitudes towards marine renewable energy, although given opinion pieces found in the media and elsewhere, we could be forgiven for thinking that they did. One of the things I find fascinating about investigating conflict in the marine environment is how the naysayers are often the minority and yet are capable of harnessing great attention to their cause. Why do the proponents just keep quiet? Why are we so willing to mobilise against something rather than for it?
Dr Karen A Alexander
University of Tasmania
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Attitudes of Scottish fishers towards marine renewable energy, Marine Policy, January 2013, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.marpol.2012.05.005.
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