One in Five Remains : Managing the complex problem of sugar kelp loss in the Skagerrak strait

Abstract

During the 21st century's first decade research has established an 80% loss of sugar kelp along the Norwegian coast of the Skagerrak strait. Sugar kelp forms marine forests that are habitats for a wide array of other species. With only one in five plants remaining this poses a severe threat to biodiversity. This thesis explores the Norwegian management frameworks that are relevant to this complex problem, with a particular focus on agricultural runoff. A central question is how management systems can adapt to address complex environmental problems.

Key words: Adaptive co-management, integrated coastal zone management, sugar kelp, Skagerrak, Glomma river basin district, stakeholder participation, post-normal science, co-production of knowledge, interdisciplinary approaches