Green movements below the surface

Abstract

Macroalgae can benefit society in a variety of ways, and there is a lot of potential for cultivation of macroalgae in Norway. A sustainable development of this industry is needed to make use of these benefits, today and in the future. Hence, it is asked which opportunities and barriers exist in developing the industry and how the barriers are affecting this development. Inspired by a Grounded Theory Approach, firms, municipalities and counties working with the industry are asked about their thoughts about future developments. It is found that there are a number of barriers and opportunities in the industry and that important barriers in developing the industry sustainably include profitability, production value, area use and research and innovation. It is suggested these barriers all play important roles in explaining the development. It is also suggested that there could be underlying reasons how the barriers are affecting this development.