Perceptions of fishers and developers on the co-location of offshore wind farms and decapod fisheries in the UK

摘要: The predicted expansion of the global offshore wind sector is likely to increase conflicts as users coastal zone compete for space, and displacement fisheries particular concern. It therefore important explore opportunities that could support co-existence farms (OWFs) fishing activity. In addition ecological evidence on effects OWFs commercially exploited species, co-location issue requires understanding perceptions fishers OWF developers key constraints opportunities. Interviews were carried out in 2013 with 67 South Wales Eastern England 11 from major energy companies, discover experiences opinions crab lobster fisheries. Developers expressed broad co-location, perceiving potential benefits their relationship wider reputation. Fishers had more mixed opinions, geographical variation, exhibited a range risk perception. lack reported experience potting within was not related stock concerns but uncertainty around safety, gear retrieval, insurance liability. Clear protocols communication address these issues are essential if be feasible. Scale may also limit fishers, especially large inaccessible much inshore fleet. There remains enhance artificial reef by deploying additional material between turbines, options finance such schemes, how investment offset against compensation paid displaced require further investigation.