The Oslofjord Case Study, led by Gunnar Sander and Saskia Trubbach from the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), examines the challenges posed by eutrophication and overfishing in the fjord’s ecosystem. The study highlights the limitations of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) in managing coastal zones, as it excludes key ecosystem components such as fish, seabirds, and sea mammals.
While Norway has robust ecosystem-based ocean management for its open waters, coastal zones like the Oslofjord have lagged behind. This gap underscores the need for more integrated approaches that address the unique challenges of coastal ecosystems.
The establishment of the Oslofjord Planning Council, a cross-sectoral initiative that unites stakeholders across various sectors, represents a pivotal step forward. By improving the coherence of existing policies, the council aims to enhance the implementation of sustainable planning instruments and foster better integration of marine and coastal management practices. This study provides valuable insights into creating a more cohesive and sustainable governance framework for the Oslofjord.
