Vulnerability and spatial competition: The case of fisheries and offshore wind projects

Abstract

Professional fishing activities are subject to spatial pressures. The cohabitation between a traditional fishing activity and development of the offshore wind energy industry raises questions about space sharing and rules of use. This paper proposes to adapt the vulnerability methodology developed to deal with global threats of climate change to this example of local, non-climatic change using the case study of a floating wind turbine project between Groix and Belle-Île (France). To understand and compare the potential impact of the different artisanal fishing activities, the method aims to conceptualize vulnerability with the identification of social, economic, and environmental key pressures and address them in a composite index. Although the smallest fishing units appear to be the most vulnerable, this effect is associated with a high sensitivity to the area near the coast. This research also highlights the importance of transparency and clarity during the construction of the composite index to avoid misinterpretation. This case study supports the relevance of applying the vulnerability method on a local scale to facilitate dialogue between stakeholders and reduce negotiation costs.