Uncertainties and values in European aquaculture: communication, management and policy issues in times of “changing public perceptions”

The hypothesis that forms the basis of debatefor this paper is that in order for theEuropean aquaculture industry to achieve itsgrowth potential in terms of consumer andpublic acceptance then it must establishparticipatory fora that adopt open andtransparent discussions on the current andfuture issues surrounding sustainabledevelopment. Fundamental to this goal iseffective communication of easy-to-digestinformation. Also, interested parties should begiven the option to be involved in thedevelopment of recommendations.This paper recommends among others the followingmeasures:Full adoption of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Strategy, based on a multidisciplinary framework and extended peer-reviews;More openness and debate, including the broadening of perspectives, regarding the issues of sustainability and food safety;The wider use of various participatory mechanisms on different levels, e.g. through national consensus conferences.