Regulation of environmental effects of mariculture in Norway

Abstract

The rapid development of the mariculture industry in Norway has caused pollution problems in the marine environment as well as conflicts with other users of the coastal zone. Research and practical experience have helped to identify the environmental problems caused by fish farming and have enabled the authorities to set up environmental objectives for Norwegian mariculture regarding escapes of cultivated fish, diseases, medicines, chemicals and organic matter. Simultaneously, the authorities have promoted coastal zone management, and a planning tool for Norwegian aquaculture at the regional level called LENKA has been developed. As a continuation a new regulation system at site level called MOM is now under development. The two systems will facilitate coastal zone planning and site management.