Abstract
Offshore wind is on the rise in Europe. Between 2030-2040, capacity is estimated to increase from 109-112 to 215-248 GW. This development will increase pressure on the marine environment and contribute to more conflicts between maritime users. On the other hand, new studies show that offshore wind may also function as de facto Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) because they prevent certain fishing activities like bottom trawling. Studies also show that various fish species may benefit from increased opportunities for spawning, foraging, and shelter due to the artificial reef effect. In addition, supplementary installations like Nature-inclusive design (NID) can help enhance these effects and contribute to “nature positive” effects.
This study examines how these "nature positive effects" are argued for and negotiated in a Norwegian context. By focusing on two Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs) for biodiversity that were published as part of the Strategic Impact Assessment (SIA) for Sørvest F, Vestavind F and Vestavind B in November 2024, the study examines how these documents actively frame, argue and negotiate for “nature positive effects”. The study employs the practice-oriented approach as described by Asdal and Reinertsen (2022) which is closely connected to Science and Technology Studies (STS), and studies of so-called issues. Inspired by this, I analyze how the SEAs take a part in shaping, modifying and transforming two co- emerging issues. This thesis reveals that SEAs actively modify what nature is, and in this way actively transform OWFs into a measure that can both "restore" and "improve" nature. The study also discusses how these framings support different ideas of sustainability, by favoring some interest over others.