Socio-economic analysis and stakeholder involvement: Mussel-farming in the Gulf of Trieste

Stakeholder engagement is a crucial component of the Ecosystem Approach to Aquaculture (EAA). However, stakeholder engagement is often hampered by problems that occur, for example, when the perceived benefits are low relative to the cost of participation or when there is a lack of trust among the stakeholder groups. The objective of this paper is to discuss the primary results of a coastal research project on mussel farming sustainability, focusing on (1) the key qualities of the interaction between the scientists and the mussel farmers and (2) the role of the funding institution. The primary results of the socio-economic analysis are presented. These results include objective data and information regarding the mussel farmers' perceptions of the problems and opportunities involved and the relevant environmental issues. A cooperative involvement was established with some of the stakeholders, and open bilateral meetings were held that allowed the participants to share ideas and results. Interviews and a survey were conducted to collect information directly from all of the mussel farmers. This approach made it possible to develop a 'common pool of knowledge' that the scientists and mussel farmers could share.