Opportunities for increased blue growth in coastal parts of Østfold

Summary

A number of studies and strategy documents, both at international and national level, indicate that there is great potential for increased growth and value creation related to marine industries (blue growth). The Viken county council and the municipalities along the Østfold coast therefore wanted to investigate opportunities for development of coastal based industries from Moss in the north to Halden in the south. The aim of the study was to: 1) Describe physical, chemical and biological conditions along the coast, 2) point out various opportunities in relation to development of coastal businesses, 3) describe important laws and regulations, and 4) give an overall assessment of opportunities and limitations for development of new businesses related to the coastal zone. To achieve the goals of increased value creation within the blue industries, it is important that industrial actors and entrepreneurs are innovative and have focus on solutions that are both environmentally and economically sustainable. At the same time, it is important that municipalities and county councils develop concrete strategies for the development of coastal industries and follow up by making suitable areas available and regulated for blue growth activities.