This report documents the “Green Energy Meets Blue Food – Sustainable Coexistence in Nordic Seas” project, funded by the Nordic Council of Ministers for Fisheries, Aquaculture, Food and Forestry (EK-FJLS), and summarises the project’s journey and key outputs.
As offshore wind energy expands across Nordic waters to meet climate and energy targets, this project addresses a critical question: how can the Nordic countries effectively manage the competing demands of renewable energy and traditional marine food production for marine space? Recognising that this challenge cannot be resolved by individual sectors or nations alone, the project explores pathways towards sustainable coexistence between offshore renewable energy (primarily wind) and blue food sectors (particularly fisheries).
The project emerged from a clear policy mandate. At their 2023 summer meeting, the Nordic ministers launched initiatives for sustainable marine economy, including one focused on coexistence between marine-based energy, nature conservation and fishing. This builds upon the 2022 prime ministers’ declaration on strengthening marine cooperation for the green transition. Our project directly responded to these commitments by contributing knowledge to inform policy and practice.
Over two years (2024–2026), we have undertaken comprehensive research and engagement. Through literature reviews, six case studies across the Nordic Region and Scotland and extensive stakeholder involvement, we have examined how Nordic countries navigate the complex governance challenges of marine space allocation. Our work has revealed that long-term sustainable coexistence is less about technical solutions for sharing space and more about building effective collaboration frameworks, policy coherence, establishing trust between sectors and ensuring inclusive decision-making processes.
Throughout the project, our reference group of experts from ministries, planning authorities, research institutions (from the Nordic Region and beyond) and the Nordic Council of Ministers has provided invaluable guidance, ensuring relevance to current policy debates and practical realities.
This report provides a comprehensive account of our research approach, documents the knowledge generated about coexistence challenges and opportunities, and synthesises insights from our key outputs. It serves both as a record of achievement and as a foundation for continued work. We hope that this report and associated outputs provide the Nordic countries with an enhanced knowledge base to navigate the complex interface between green energy ambitions and blue food security, ultimately supporting the sustainable development of Nordic seas for current and future generations.