The potential impact of sea lice agents on coastal shrimp in Norway: risk perception among different stakeholders

Abstract

In this article, we investigate how the uncertain consequences of sea lice agents on the environment affect the management process, focusing on the coastal shrimp in Norway. In this context, the key stakeholders (shrimp fishers and aquaculture owners) have conflicting interests and understand uncertainty from different perspectives. We ask: (1) How do fishers and aquaculture representatives translate uncertainty into risk, and do they link uncertainty to the precautionary approach or not? (2) How is uncertainty dealt with scientifically and related to decisions made by the authorities? Finally, we address organizational aspects related to a “post-normal approach” and ask: (3) Is it possible to organize the risk assessment process differently, to ensure more effective and legitimate advice? In order to answer these questions, we understand these issues as post-normal ones, and lean on both Science and Technology Studies and Risk Governance theory. We use a mix of social scientific methods including literature review, participatory observation, and semi-structured interviews. Our findings indicate that since the effect of sea lice agents is an uncontrollable problem ridden with uncertainty, science alone is insufficient, calling for a more participatory approach.