The project provides in-depth studies of local communities and decision-making, in particular the strategies of Norwegian municipalities with regard to planning and allocation of areas for aquaculture.

Also, responses to the various criticisms raised against aquaculture on a business/industry level and by governmental entities at different levels of aquaculture management will be addressed. The analytical perspective of the project concentrate on mechanisms affecting public support and legitimacy related to all three dimensions of industry sustainability i.e., environmental, social and economic sustainability, and the interrelation between these.