The use of modern biotechnology in aquaculture, as for instant transgenic fish, DNA vaccines and GM feed, may help to solve some of the challenges facing the aquaculture industry. Introducing novel technologies to complex ecological and social systems do however create situations characterized by uncertainty and ignorance. Technical solutions are often accompanied with unintended consequences which are difficult, if not impossible, to predict prior to application. Scientists and policymakers are faced with the challenge of managing this uncertainty.

The main aim of this project is to gather perspectives on uncertainties, risk, social values and community expectations regarding the use of modern biotechnology in aquaculture. More specifically, we have conducted an uncertainty analyses in order to elicit scientists’ judgements of uncertainties and risks related to the use of DNA vaccines in aquaculture. Furthermore we have invited representatives of different interest groups to perform a multi criteria mapping exercise of alternative feed resources for domesticated salmon, as a means to facilitate broader involvement in decision-making processes. Based on our experiences of these studies we indent to critically discuss how to promote precautionary based research for the sustainable introduction of modern biotechnology in aquaculture.


Frøydis Gillund and Anne I. Myhr


Publications

Gillund, F and Myhr, A. I. (2006) Uncertainty and precaution; challenges and implications for science and policy of DNA vaccines in aquaculture. Ethics and the policy of food, Kaiser M, Lien, M (eds) pp 180- 184, Wageningen Academic Publishers, The Netherlands.

Kvakkestad V, Gillund F, Kjølberg KA, Vatn A (2007) Scientists` perspectives on the deliberative release of GM crops. Environmental Values 16:79-104

Gillund, F. og Myhr A.I.(2007) Vitenskapelig usikkerhet – etiske utfordringer for forskning og forvaltning. Etikk i Praksis / Nordic Journal of Applied Ethics s. 99- 122

Tonheim, T., Gillund, F., Myrh, A.I. and Dalmo R., (2008) DNA vaccines application in aquaculture: Prospects & Constraints. Chapter in Aquaculture Microbiology. Science
Publishers, Inc, NH, USA.
 

Gillund, F., Kjølberg, K.A., Krayer von Krauss, M. & Myhr, A.I. 2008. Do uncertainty analyses reveal uncertainties? Using the introduction of DNA vaccines to aquaculture as a case. Science of The Total Environment 407, 185-196.

Gillund, F., Dalmo, R., Tonheim, T.C., Seternes, T. & Myhr, A.I. 2008. DNA vaccination in aquaculture — Expert judgments of impacts on environment and fish health. Aquaculture 284, 25-34