Young people most upbeat about aquaculture
YOUNG people in Norway are considerably more positive about fish farming than the older population, a survey carried out recently by national broadcaster NRK has shown.
The survey was conducted in the Troms and Finnmark regions which are both heavily involved in aquaculture.
Just over 67 per cent of those questioned in the 18 to 44 age group said they thought salmon farming was good for the country, and more than half of those were in the younger 18 to 29 bracket. This compares with just over 31 per cent in the 65 and over group.
The findings were in contrast to a similar poll carried out in Finnmark two years ago, when less than half of young people were in favour of fish farms.
When asked if more fish farms should be opened, 46 per cent in the 18 to 44 group said yes, while the figure for those aged over 65 was only 21 per cent.
Some 70 per cent of the older group questioned said the number of fish farms should be reduced, while the figure among young and early middle aged people was 56 per cent.
Lerøy farming executive Stig Nilsen said the figures confirmed the company’s own experiences.
‘We are seeing a very large increase in the number of young people seeking to study for careers in aquaculture.
‘Many are contacting my own company looking for career opportunities. We are seeing a very large increase in the search rate for all studies in aquaculture.’