WP3 D3.4 Report on the governance models in the pilot regions
Coastal communities are grappling with challenges arising from the climate crisis, rural depopulation, and economic pressures. The BlueRev initiative addresses these issues by focusing on empowering coastal communities, reimagining policy frameworks and fostering adaptable governance structures. These initiatives aim to revitalise local economies through engagement with the blue bioeconomy.
To understand the dynamics influencing blue bioeconomy value chains, a comprehensive governance analysis is conducted across three pilot regions, in addition to one overseas territory. The analysis utilises the Governance of Innovation Systems (GOIS) approach, an extension of Technological Innovation Systems (TIS), to examine governance structures facilitating or hindering cooperation, innovation implementation, upscaling and dissemination.
The GOIS analysis is structured around six key functions: Knowledge development and dissemination, resource mobilisation, direction of search, market formation, legitimacy creation, and entrepreneurial experimentation. Data collection involves interviews, workshops, and desk research to evaluate governance effectiveness in these dimensions.
The results contribute to the development of recommendations in Work Package 4 (WP4), focusing on local governance but encompassing private sector and national governance aspects. A custom Large Language Model (LLM) specialising in TIS analysis aids in the initial assessment, with subsequent control and refinement carried out by researchers.
Three pilot regions within the European Union are examined, acknowledging the impact of EU policies on marine and aquaculture resources. Key policies influencing fisheries and aquaculture include the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), Common Market Organisation (CMO) regulation, European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), Strategic guidelines for EU Aquaculture and the Farm to Fork Strategy.
The governance analysis serves as a foundation for generating recommendations aimed at fostering economic, ecological and social development within blue bioeconomy value chains. By understanding existing governance structures, the BlueRev initiative seeks to pave the way for sustainable and innovative practices in European coastal communities.