Marine bioeconomy for circular nitrogen and phosphorus flows in Sweden: Alternatives, hurdles and policy tools

Circular flows of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are needed for several reasons. The planetary boundaries with respect to these nutrient cycles have been exceeded beyond a safe operating space, which results in a number of environmental pressures as well as resource scarcity. Previous research has concluded that marine biomass such as micro- and macro-algae, reed and mussels have a high potential for taking up N and P. Development of products such as biogas, biofertilizer, polymers, food etc., has the potential to also bring about recovery and reuse of N and P. There may be room for a marine bioeconomy which contributes to economic growth as well as closing the N and P loops while also alleviating eutrophication along the Swedish coast. However, there are many challenges and pitfalls and policy may have to adapt in order to sustain these activities. In this project, we provide a birds-eye perspective on possible development in Sweden, including visions, hurdles, and potential enabling policies. The project includes comparisons of suitable biomass and products and quantification of N and P flows using element flow analysis; assessment of economic potential; stakeholder mapping and hurdle analysis; and the mapping out of policy options. The team is interdisciplinary consisting of researchers specialized in life cycle assessment and material flow analysis, environmental economics, gender equality, marine ecology, governance, social impact assessment, and environmental policy.

Contact person:

Linus Hasselström

Email:plh@kth.se