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A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS AND QUANTITATIVE ASSESSMENT OF THE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK AND IMPACTS OF THE SEAWEED SECTOR IN THE BALTIC SEA REGION
Abstract
This analysis examines the regulatory framework for the seaweed sector and its impact in the Baltic Sea region through a systematic literature review and quantitative approach. The study assessed legislation and policy documents at four levels of governance: international, European Union, regional and national. The aim of the study was to provide a comprehensive overview of the legal framework for the seaweed sector, to identify the main trends and challenges, and to assess its potential impact on the development and environmental aspects of the sector. The quantitative analysis showed a significant potential of the seaweed sector after the introduction of the regulation, including CO2 sequestration (367 098 пїЅ 429 318 t CO2/year), economic development (1 593 пїЅ 1 863 billion пїЅ/year) and nutrient production (7 021 пїЅ 8 211 t N/year and 501.5 пїЅ 586.5 t P/year). However, the regulatory framework has the potential to reduce the size of the sector by approximately 15% and its economic value by 10%. The study concludes that a balanced regulatory approach is important for the sustainable development of the seaweed industry in the Baltic Sea region, stressing the need for adaptive regulation that promotes both environmental protection and economic growth.
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