Theme 4: Abstract for WG 3
4.3 Overcoming institutional constraints inhibiting the transition towards a ‘new’ bio economy. Enhancing governance and policy frameworks
Organisers:
Michael Kull & Karen Refsgaard, Nordregio, michael.kull@nordregio.se
Margareta Dahlström & Ida Grundel (Karlstad University), Sirpa Kurppa & Hilkka Vihinen (LUKE Finland), John Bryden & Knut Øistad (Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, NIBIO
Abstract:
Rural and coastal areas in Norden and elsewhere see the emergence of new innovative products and services as part of a transition to a ‘new’ bio economy. These products and services are land-based, i.e. related to forestry, agriculture etc. They also include marine-based activities, such as aquaculture, coastal tourism etc. as well as the production of bioenergy. This transition leads to both an increased demand for biomass and its multiple use. At the same time, the increasing interests on how to use the land, coastal areas and sea space may also lead to conflicts due to multiple use and interest.
The transformation of the current economy into a ‘new’ bio economy requires thus adaptive / changed institutional frameworks at regional and national level. Sensitivity to place-based knowledge and other types of resources are key factors in this transition, too.
To better understand the institutional constraints inhibiting the transition towards a ‘new’ bio economy, we invite papers that consider the following aspects:
– Regulatory and policy structures, practices, ownership and user rights aspects related to land use and processes within biomass production
– Initiatives for local innovation networks
– Increased understanding of who are the key stakeholders within different sectors, representing different interests within the ‘new’ bio economy.
– Conflicts between users and uses of land / coasts / sea and their bio resources
– Social and economic impacts and outcomes
– Place-based policy instruments for the new bio economy
We welcome insights from different social science disciplines, legal studies and critical economic approaches. We encourage papers with a geographical focus also beyond the Nordic countries.
Arrangement:
Presentations followed by interactive panel
Abstract forwarded to: michael.kull@nordregio.se and info@ruralities.org before Jan. 1st 2018