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Assessing the effects of electrical stunning in wild caught fisheries prior to slaughter and its impact on cod (Gadus morhua) welfare
Get PDFAtlantic cod (Gadus morhua) is a demersal fish native from the northern hemisphere. As demand for cod continues to rise, both consumption and fishing practices have come under increasing ethical scrutiny. One area of concern is traditional slaughter methods, such as bleeding – which involves severing the gills and caudal veins. These procedures, when performed without prior stunning, are a major welfare concern. Therefore, it is important to explore and promote alternative methods that may offer more humane solutions. Despite growing attention to animal welfare, there is a distinct lack of knowledge, laws, protocols and studies available on the efficacy of slaughtering methods in wild capture fisheries. In this study, under field conditions we exposed wild caught Atlantic cod to either electrical stunning before slaughter or no treatment before exsanguination. To assess the efficiency of the stunning machine, we analyzed plasma cortisol, behavior and neuronal activity in the telencephalic region of the brain (olfactory bulb and telencephalon). Our results showed that the group sampled 5 min after being subjected to electrical stunning had lower cortisol levels than the group confined (no bleeding, no stunning) for 5 min. In addition, the fish confined for 5 min showed significantly higher neuronal activity in the olfactory bulb average, olfactory bulb right, and telencephalon compared to the other treatments. The group of fish subjected to electrical stunning and waited 5 min before the sampling showed the lowest cortisol levels as well as low neuronal activity. The group subjected to bleeding and were sampled after 10 min exhibited higher neuronal activity than the fish that were subjected to electrical stunning followed by severing of the gills and caudal vein after 10 min in the left olfactory bulb and left telencephalon. Together our results suggest that electrical stunning can reduce immediate stress responses, particularly when followed by rapid slaughter, if the right settings are applied. We concluded that 25 to 30 V is not enough to render cod unconscious since they appear to have recovered a degree of consciousness after 5 and/or 10 min post-stunning. Further studies are needed to improve the efficiency of this method. We hope that this work will help find ethical and efficient slaughtering methods and contribute to improving animal welfare in the fishing industry
Interesseavveininger i strandsonen: Sameksistensen mellom kyststi og byggeaktivitet i Moss og Asker kommune.
Get PDFNedbygging i strandsonen synliggjør konflikten mellom utbyggingsinteresser og allmennhetens rett til ferdsel og opphold ved sjøen. Selv om lover og nasjonale føringer skal sikre tilgang, blir nye byggeprosjekter stadig realisert i disse områdene. Kommunen spiller en avgjørende rolle i å stille krav til utbyggere og sikre at tilgjengelighet, blant annet gjennom tilrettelegging for kyststi, ivaretas i byggeprosjekter.
Hovedformålet med oppgaven er å undersøke hvordan byggeaktivitet og kyststi kan sameksistere i strandsonen, og hvilke konsekvenser dette har for allmennhetens tilgang. Tidligere forskning har belyst nedbygging av strandsonen og bevaring av bynære friluftsområder, mens det i mindre grad er belyst hvordan kyststien kan fungere som et planverktøy og motvekt til privatisering. Gjennom kvalitative metoder – dokumentanalyse, intervjuer og befaring – studeres fire byggeprosjekter i Moss og Asker.
Funnene viser at byggeaktivitet i noen tilfeller kan ha en positiv effekt ved å tilgjengeliggjøre tidligere industriområder for allmenn bruk. Samtidig illustrerer kasusene hvordan kyststien kan ha en preventiv funksjon på byggeaktivitet ved å øke synligheten av området, engasjere lokalsamfunnet og fungere som en juridisk barriere mot ytterligere nedbygging. Selv i fravær av eksisterende kyststi har alle de undersøkte prosjektene tilrettelagt for ny kyststi eller offentlige rom. Det er imidlertid forskjeller i hvor mye plass som er satt av til allmennheten ved de ulike prosjektene. Oppgaven bidrar med ny innsikt i hvordan kyststi og utbygging kan balanseres i strandsonen.
Helhetlig planlegging, tidlig dialog og klare krav fra kommunen fremstår som sentrale faktorer for å sikre gode løsninger. Selv om funnene har flere nyanser, gir de en pekepinn på hvordan planlegging og byggeaktivitet spiller en avgjørende rolle i utformingen av ny kyststi Resultatene kan være relevante for både planleggere, politikere og utbyggere som ønsker å kombinere bebyggelse med bevaring av allmenne interesser.Development in the coastal zone highlights the conflict between development interests and the public’s right to access and stay by the sea. Although laws and national guidelines are intended to ensure access, new construction projects continue to be realized in these areas. The municipality plays a crucial role in setting requirements for developers and ensuring accessibility, including the facilitation of coastal paths, in construction projects.
The main objective of this thesis is to investigate how construction activity and coastal paths can coexist in the coastal zone and the implications this has for public access. Previous research has addressed the development of the coastal zone and the preservation of urban recreational areas, but less attention has been paid to how coastal paths can function as a planning tool and countermeasure to privatization. Using qualitative methods – document analysis, interviews, and site visits – four construction projects in Moss and Asker are studied.
The findings indicate that construction activity can, in some cases, have a positive effect by making former industrial areas available for public use. At the same time, the case studies illustrate how coastal paths can have a preventive function on construction activity by increasing the visibility of the area, engaging the local community, and acting as a legal barrier against further development. Even in the absence of an existing coastal paths, all the examined projects studied have facilitated coastal paths or public spaces. However, there are differences in how much space has been allocated for the public in the various projects.
The thesis contributes new insights into how coastal paths and development can be balanced in the coastal zone. Holistic planning, early dialogue, and clear requirements from the municipality appear to be key factors in ensuring good solutions. Although the findings are nuances, they provide pointers on how planning and construction activity play a crucial role in shaping new coastal paths. The results may be relevant for planners, politicians, and developers who aim to combine development with the preservation of public interests
From Arrival to Employment: The Role of Local Institutions and NGOs in Refugee Employment Integration in Tønsberg Municipality, Norway
Get PDFRefugees are compelled to flee their countries due to persecution, conflict, or instability, seeking protection under international law. The massive influx of refugees into various host countries poses a significant challenge for how well these countries manage refugee integration. Labour market participation is a central dimension of integration, contributing to self-sufficiency and societal inclusion. In Norway, integration policies are shaped by national legislation, specifically the Integration Act, and implemented through local municipalities to ensure that immigrants do not fall outside Norwegian working and social life. While municipalities are central actors in delivering integration programmes, outcomes vary depending on local resources, coordination, and flexibility.
This research examines the integration of refugees in Norway with a particular focus on employment in the Municipality of Tønsberg, focusing on the role of local institutions, municipal bodies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with ten (10) key informants actively involved in refugee support. The empirical findings of this research reveal a locally coordinated system in which each actor plays a distinct and defined role in guiding refugees through different stages of integration. A strong emphasis is placed on individual-tailored support, where language acquisition forms the foundation of most efforts. Employment supports are delivered through both formal institutions and informal community networks. NGOs play a supplementary role in filling gaps left by the formal system, particularly by offering services informal settings such as language cafés and gender-specific conversation groups.
However, several recurring barriers to integration were raised by key informants. Language proficiency remains a major challenge, particularly due to limited opportunities to practice in real-world settings. Other challenges include non-recognition of prior qualifications, restricted mobility, trauma, gendered family roles, and unequal access to services based on legal status. The findings also point to a growing duality in the system, a significant contrast was noted between Ukrainian refugees and other groups; the former often rely on self-organized community networks and benefit from immediate employment access, which can unintentionally limit their participation in formal integration services. This divergence creates perceived inequalities within the refugee community.
Through the lens of Transitional Labour Market (TLM) theory, the study demonstrates how coordinated, flexible, and individually tailored interventions ranging from extended language training, language internships, employment-focused services, and informal learning spaces, facilitate refugee transition into the labour market. The research underscores the importance of coordinated, adaptive, and human-centred strategies in achieving significant and sustainable integration outcomes.Refugees are compelled to flee their countries due to persecution, conflict, or instability, seeking protection under international law. The massive influx of refugees into various host countries poses a significant challenge for how well these countries manage refugee integration. Labour market participation is a central dimension of integration, contributing to self-sufficiency and societal inclusion. In Norway, integration policies are shaped by national legislation, specifically the Integration Act, and implemented through local municipalities to ensure that immigrants do not fall outside Norwegian working and social life. While municipalities are central actors in delivering integration programmes, outcomes vary depending on local resources, coordination, and flexibility.
This research examines the integration of refugees in Norway with a particular focus on employment in the Municipality of Tønsberg, focusing on the role of local institutions, municipal bodies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with ten (10) key informants actively involved in refugee support. The empirical findings of this research reveal a locally coordinated system in which each actor plays a distinct and defined role in guiding refugees through different stages of integration. A strong emphasis is placed on individual-tailored support, where language acquisition forms the foundation of most efforts. Employment supports are delivered through both formal institutions and informal community networks. NGOs play a supplementary role in filling gaps left by the formal system, particularly by offering services informal settings such as language cafés and gender-specific conversation groups.
However, several recurring barriers to integration were raised by key informants. Language proficiency remains a major challenge, particularly due to limited opportunities to practice in real-world settings. Other challenges include non-recognition of prior qualifications, restricted mobility, trauma, gendered family roles, and unequal access to services based on legal status. The findings also point to a growing duality in the system, a significant contrast was noted between Ukrainian refugees and other groups; the former often rely on self-organized community networks and benefit from immediate employment access, which can unintentionally limit their participation in formal integration services. This divergence creates perceived inequalities within the refugee community.
Through the lens of Transitional Labour Market (TLM) theory, the study demonstrates how coordinated, flexible, and individually tailored interventions ranging from extended language training, language internships, employment-focused services, and informal learning spaces, facilitate refugee transition into the labour market. The research underscores the importance of coordinated, adaptive, and human-centred strategies in achieving significant and sustainable integration outcomes
Omstilling til bledningsskog fra tosjiktede bestand med gran (Picea abies) under en bjørkeskjerm (Betula spp.)
Get PDFOmstilling til bledningsskog er i dag aktuelt på grunn av den store etterspørselen etter lukkede, selektive hogstformer. I bledningssystemet høstes først og fremst enkelttrær over en gitt måldiameter. Systemet både krever og opprettholder en flersjiktet skogstruktur med mange små trær og suksessivt færre med økende diameter. Dette gjør at konkurransetolerante arter som gran (Picea abies) egner seg best.
En omstilling til grandominert bledningsskog må sørge for at grantrærne over tid utvikler en flersjiktet struktur, og at denne opprettholdes og utvikles til mange trær har nådd måldiameter. I denne oppgaven undersøkes det om en lang tids tett bjørkeskjerm kan brukes systematisk for å utvikle den ønskede strukturvariasjonen.
Ved å analysere størrelses- og posisjonsdata for to store prøveflater i Ås, beskrives gransjiktets strukturutvikling gjennom de første 30 årene av en omstillingsfase. Utviklingen ses i sammenheng med behandlingshistorikken og konkurransen fra bjørkeskjermen.
Resultatene viser at bestandene som følge av relativt lik behandling (tynning ved overhøyde 11 m) de første 20 år hadde utviklet ganske lik bestandsstruktur. Gransjiktet hadde nokså tilsvarende fint fallende diameter- og høydefordelinger. Ved 34 års alder har begge bestandene fortsatt en tydelig flersjiktet struktur. Imidlertid har gransjiktet i det ene bestandet, som ble tynnet ved overhøyde 16 m, differensiert seg langt mer i høyde, diameter og tetthet. Den konkurransebaserte reduksjonen i høydetilvekst viser at en strukturdifferensieringsprosess fortsatt pågår i begge bestand, som følge av svært høye, men varierende konkurranseforhold.
Resultatene indikerer at systematisk bruk av en bjørkeskjerm, som gjennom hele omstillingsfasen holdes ved ca. 70-90% av maksimal tetthet for bjørk, vil være optimalt for utvikling av flersjiktet gran, før bjørkeskjermen etter hvert må avvikles.
I oppgavens andre del undersøkes representativiteten ved bruk av enkle transekter for å beskrive gransjiktets struktur i omstillingsfasen. Dette undersøkes ved å simulere tusenvis av transekter med varierende treantall, og måle dem opp mot ulike kriterier for tilstrekkelig representativitet. Analysen viser at transekter på 60 trær vil være et effektivt verktøy for overvåkning av gransjiktets utvikling i omstillingsfasen.Conversion to the selection system is currently relevant due to the growing demand for selective harvesting systems. In the selection system, harvesting primarily targets individual trees above a specified target diameter. The system both requires and maintains a multi-layered forest structure with many small trees and progressively fewer as diameter increases. This favors shade-tolerant species such as Norway spruce (Picea abies).
A transition to spruce-dominated selection forest must ensure that the spruce layer gradually develops a multi-layered structure, which is then maintained and further developed until a sufficient number of trees reach the target diameter. This study investigates whether a dense birch (Betula spp.) overstory can be used systematically to promote the desired structural variability.
By analyzing tree size and spatial data from two large research plots in Ås, the development of the spruce layer structure is described over the first 30 years of the transition phase. The development is examined in light of treatment history and competition from the birch overstory.
The results show that, due to relatively similar management (thinning at dominant height 11 m) during the first 20 years, both stands developed relatively similar structures. The spruce layers exhibited fairly comparable, smoothly declining diameter and height distributions. At age 34, both stands still exhibit a clearly multi-layered structure. However, the spruce layer in the stand thinned at a dominant height of 16 m has differentiated much more in terms of height, diameter, and density. The competition-induced reduction in height growth indicates that a structural differentiation process is still ongoing in both stands, driven by high but variable levels of competition.
The results suggest that systematically maintaining a birch overstory at 70–90% of its maximum stand density throughout the transition phase is likely optimal for the development of multi-layered spruce, before the birch layer is gradually removed.
In the second part of the study, the representativeness of using simple transects to describe the spruce layer’s structure during the transition phase is examined. Thousands of transects with varying tree numbers are simulated and evaluated against different criteria for sufficient representativeness. The analysis shows that transects with 60 trees will be an efficient tool for monitoring the development of the spruce layer during the transition phase
Nye generasjoner, nye krav: En studie av WGHs tilnærming til ledelse av Generasjon Z
Get PDFGenerasjon Z, definert som personer født mellom midten av 1990-tallet og rundt 2010, er nå i ferd med å innta arbeidslivet for fullt. For at arbeidsgivere skal lykkes med å tiltrekke, motivere og ikke minst beholde denne generasjonen, er det avgjørende å forstå hva som driver dem - både i form av hva som motiverer dem og riktig ledelse. Denne masteroppgaven undersøker hvordan ledere i WGH kan møte Generasjon Z på en måte som fremmer motivasjon og engasjement i arbeidslivet. Vi har derfor utarbeidet følgende problemstilling:
Hvordan kan WGH tilpasse sin ledelsesstrategi for å fremme motivasjon og effektivt lede ansatte fra Generasjon Z i arbeidslivet?
Vi har benyttet forskning om Generasjon Z og relevant litteratur. Analysen tar utgangspunkt i situasjonsbetinget ledelse, transformasjonsledelse og endringsledelse. Det teoretiske rammeverket inneholder også motivasjonsteori som selvbestemmelseteori (Deci & Ryan) og Herzbergs tofaktorteori. Videre bygger oppgaven på en mixed methods-tilnærming, med både en kvalitativ casestudie med 11 semistrukturerte intervjuer av ledere og kvantitativ spørreundersøkelse med 53 deltakere av generasjon Z ansatte i WGH.
Funnene viser at ansatte fra Generasjon Z har høye forventninger til individuell oppfølging, fleksibilitet i arbeidshverdagen og meningsfulle oppgaver. De søker både kontinuerlig faglig og personlig utvikling, samt at de foretrekker ledere som gir støtte, anerkjennelse og mulighet for medbestemmelse. Ledelsen i WGH beskriver at Gen Z stiller andre og mer krevende forventninger enn tidligere generasjoner, spesielt når det gjelder tilbakemeldinger, karriereutvikling og behovet for å bli sett. Dette medfører utfordringer innad i organisasjonen, spesielt innen kommunikasjon, håndtering av tilbakemeldinger og opprettholdelse av en viss stabilitet i arbeidsforholdene. Generasjon Zs teknologiske selvtillit fremstår som en styrke, men skaper også generasjonskløfter i digitale ferdigheter og arbeidsstil.
Oppgaven konkluderer med at WGH bør praktisere en mer fleksibel og relasjonsbasert form for ledelse for å møte Generasjon Zs behov. Det anbefales tilpasset opplæring, utvikling av karriereløp og tilpasning av kommunikasjon for å styrke og engasjementet, samt å aktivt bruke de unge ansattes teknologiske kompetanse som en viktig ressurs.Generation Z, defined as people born between the mid-1990s and around 2010, is now fully entering the workforce. To attract, motivate, and retain Generation Z, employers must understand what drives them - both their motivations and the leadership they respond to. This master’s thesis examines how managers at WGH can meet Generation Z in a way that promotes motivation and engagement in the workplace. We have therefore developed the following research question:
How can WGH adapt its leadership strategy to promote motivation and effectively lead employees from Generation Z in the workplace?
We have used research on Generation Z and relevant literature. The analysis is based on situational leadership, transformational leadership and change management. The theoretical framework also includes motivational theories such as self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan) and Herzberg’s two-factor theory. Furthermore, the thesis is based on a mixed methods approach, with both a qualitative case study with 11 semi-structured interviews of managers and a quantitative survey with 53 participants of Generation Z employees in WGH.
The findings show that employees from Generation Z have high expectations for individual follow-up, flexibility in everyday work and meaningful tasks. They seek both continuous professional and personal development, and that they prefer leaders who provide support, recognition and opportunities for co-determination. The management of WGH describes that Gen Z sets different and more demanding expectations than previous generations, especially when it comes to feedback, career development and the need to be seen. This leads to challenges within the organization, especially in communication, handling feedback and maintaining a certain stability in working conditions. Generation Z’s technological self-confidence appears as a strength, but also creates generational gaps in digital skills and working style.
The thesis concludes that WGH should practice a more flexible and relationship-based form of management to meet Generation Z’s needs. Adapted training, career development and adaptation of communication are recommended to strengthen engagement, as well as actively using young employees’ technological expertise as an important resource
Engvekstprotein til laksefôr: Barrierer og muligheter for en verdikjede i Rogaland
Get PDFNorsk lakseoppdrett er en av landets viktigste eksportnæringer som bygger på betydelige nasjonale fortrinn. Imidlertid er det i liten grad tilsvarende fortrinn når det gjelder produksjonen av fôret laksen spiser. Fôret er i stor grad basert på importerte råvarer, noe som skaper sårbarhet i en tid med økende forstyrrelser i globale forsyningskjeder. I tillegg er fôrproduksjonen den klart største kilden til klimagassutslipp fra næringen. For å redusere utslipp og øke selvforsyningen, er dette løftet frem som et strategisk satsningsområde av myndighetene og næringen. Gjennom forskningsprosjektet ENGLAKS utforskes det derfor hvorvidt engvekstprotein fra gras- og engvekster kan utgjøre en ny, norsk fôringrediens i lakseoppdrett.
Denne studien undersøker muligheter og barrierer ved å etablere en verdikjede for engvekstprotein til laksefôr med utgangspunkt i Rogaland som avgrenset region. Det undersøkes hvilke krav som stilles til nye råvarer, og hvordan aktører i landbruket vurderer å produsere råvarer til laksefôr, inkludert hvilke konsekvenser dette kan få for dagens husdyrproduksjon i regionen. Dette ses i lys av et teoretisk rammeverk som samlet bidrar til å belyse henholdsvis systemiske konsekvenser, relasjonelle barrierer mellom næringene og regionens fortrinn og begrensninger for en mulig verdikjede.
Gjennom en kvalitativ datainnsamling med aktører fra laksefôrindustrien og landbruket, viser studien at engvekstprotein i teorien kan oppfylle krav til volum og proteinkonsentrasjon, men vil konkurrere direkte med soyaproteinkonsentrat på pris og egenskaper. Dette gir lav betalingsvilje i dagens marked. Lavt klimaavtrykk og lokal produksjon vurderes positivt, og insentiver som karbonprising kan styrke konkurransekraften på sikt. Rogaland har naturgitte forutsetninger for produksjon i industriell skala som møter oppdrettsnæringens krav til volum, men funnene viser at arealkapasiteten i dag er sterkt begrenset. En eventuell verdikjede vil kreve omdisponering av grasareal bort fra husdyrproduksjon, noe som kan svekke både den nasjonale matsikkerheten og matsystemets fleksibilitet i krisesituasjoner. Selv om presskaken har potensial som erstatning for grovfôr, vil det ikke motvirke konsekvensen av en stor andel av biomassen forsvinner fra dagens system. I tillegg kan økt konkurranse om areal gi høyere leiepriser og forverrede vilkår for bønder utenfor verdikjeden. Studien anbefaler ikke å etablere verdikjeden i Rogaland slik situasjonen er i dag. Det anbefales derfor å vurdere etablering i områder med kornproduksjon, som del av vekstskiftet.Salmon farming is one of Norway’s most important export industries, built on significant national advantages. However, there are few corresponding advantages when it comes to the production of the feed consumed. The feed is largely based on imported raw materials, which creates vulnerability in a time of increasing disruptions to global supply chains. In addition, feed production is by far the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions from the industry. To reduce emissions and increase self-sufficiency, this challenge has been highlighted as a strategic priority by both national authorities and the industry. As part of the ENGLAKS research project, the potential of protein extracted from forage crops through green biorefining (commonly referred to as grass protein) is being explored as a novel, Norwegian feed ingredient in salmon farming.
This study investigates opportunities and barriers associated with establishing a value chain for forage protein in salmon feed, using Rogaland as a case. It examines the requirements for new feed ingredients and how actors in the agricultural sector assess the production of such raw materials, including the implications for existing food production in the region. The analysis is framed by a theoretical approach that collectively examines systemic implications, relational barriers between sectors, and regional strengths and constraints for a potential value chain.
Based on a qualitative data collection with stakeholders from both the salmon feed industry and agriculture, the study finds that the ingredient theoretically can meet requirements for volume and protein concentration, but competes directly with soy protein concentrate on price and nutritional characteristics. This results in low willingness to pay under current market conditions. Low climate footprint and local production are viewed positively, and incentives such as carbon pricing may enhance competitiveness over time. While Rogaland has natural advantages for large-scale production aligned with the salmon industry’s volume demands, findings show that available land capacity is currently limited. Establishing a value chain would require reallocating grassland from livestock production, which could weaken national food security and reduce the flexibility of the food system. Although the press cake has potential as a substitute, it cannot offset the loss of biomass removed from the current system. Additionally, increased land competition could drive up lease prices and negatively affect farmers outside the value chain. The study therefore does not recommend establishing the value chain in Rogaland under current conditions, and instead suggests exploring regions with grain production, where the system could be integrated as part of a crop rotation
How can the establishment of trees in the medieval city of Tønsberg be adapted to safeguard both tree health and the preservation of archaeological layers?
Get PDFI takt med økende krav til klimatilpasning og bærekraftige bymiljøer, blir urbane trær løftet frem som en sentral del av fremtidens grønne infrastruktur. Samtidig skaper dette nye utfordringer i historiske byområder som Tønsberg, hvor store deler av sentrum er automatisk fredet på grunn av bevaringsverdige arkeologiske kulturlag. Oppgavens problemstilling er: Hvordan kan etablering av trær i middelalderbyen Tønsberg tilpasses for å ivareta både trehelse og bevaring av arkeologiske kulturlag?
Oppgaven bygger på en kvalitativ tilnærming og benytter litteraturstudier, dokumentanalyse, faglige samtaler og feltobservasjoner. Sentralt i arbeidet står forholdet mellom trerøtter og jordas fysiske, kjemiske og biologiske egenskaper, og hvordan disse påvirker både vekstforhold og nedbrytningsprosesser i kulturlag.
Funnene viser at røtter kan forstyrre bevaringsforholdene gjennom økt oksygentilførsel, temperaturendringer og mikrobiell aktivitet. Samtidig kan trær ha positive effekter, blant annet ved å stabilisere jordtemperatur og redusere overflatetørke. Dette skjer gjennom skyggevirkning og evapotranspirasjon, som reduserer vanntap fra jordoverflaten og skaper et mer stabilt mikroklima. Jordanalysen fra Tønsberg viser utfordrende vekstbetingelser for trær, med anaerobe forhold, høy saltkonsentrasjon og varierende jordstruktur. Dette forsterker behovet for tekniske løsninger som rotsperreduk, rotvennlig forsterkningslag og tilstrekkelig jordvolum – tilpasset lokale forhold.
Oppgaven anbefaler økt fokus på flerfaglig planlegging, videre overvåking av planteforsøk i middelaldergrunn, samt utvikling av en oversikt over treslag og deres egnethet i bevaringssensitive områder. Trær og kulturminner kan forenes, men krever grundig prosjektering og stedstilpassede løsninger. I skjæringspunktet mellom fortid og fremtid ligger et stort potensial for både klimatilpasning og verdibevaring.As climate adaptation and sustainable urban development gain increasing importance, urban trees are being promoted as a key component of future green infrastructure. However, in historic city centres such as Tønsberg, large parts of which are automatically protected due to valuable archaeological layers, this presents a complex challenge. This thesis addresses the question: How can the establishment of trees in the medieval city of Tønsberg be adapted to safeguard both tree health and the preservation of archaeological layers?
The study applies a qualitative and interdisciplinary approach, combining literature review, document analysis, expert interviews, and field observations. The core focus is on how tree roots interact with the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil—and how these interactions affect both tree growth and the degradation of archaeological deposits.
Findings show that tree roots can negatively impact preservation by introducing oxygen, altering soil temperature, and increasing microbial activity. At the same time, trees can have beneficial effects, such as stabilising soil temperature and helping to retain moisture in the root zone. This occurs through shading and evapotranspiration, which reduce evaporation from the soil surface and contribute to a more stable microclimate.
Soil analyses from Tønsberg reveal challenging conditions for trees, including anaerobic environments, high salinity, and variable soil texture. These findings highlight the need for technical solutions such as root barriers, load-bearing root-friendly soil structures, and adequate soil volume adapted to local conditions.
The thesis recommends increased emphasis on cross-disciplinary planning, long-term monitoring of tree planting in archaeologically sensitive areas, and the development of a practical guide to tree species suitable for such contexts. With careful design and site-specific solutions, it is possible to reconcile the needs of both heritage conservation and climate adaptation.B-L
Muligheter og utfordringer for at private utviklere kan realisere seniorboligprosjekter i områder med moderate boligpriser
Get PDFI årene som kommer vil vi stå overfor en demografisk endring hvor andelen eldre i befolkningen øker. Dette krever handling dersom vi skal sikre framtidens eldre et godt og verdig tilbud. I min masteroppgave ønsket jeg derfor å utforske utvikling av seniorboliger som en mulig løsning på dette samfunnsproblemet. Å møte behovene som følger med eldrebølgen ved å utvide helse- og omsorgstjenestene vil være økonomisk krevende. Utvikling av boliger som tilrettelegger for en selvstendig hverdag kan derfor være et viktig supplement til håndteringen av eldrebølgen.
Oppgaven tar utgangspunkt i Vefsn kommune som caseområde. Her har jeg utforsket hva som er utfordringene og mulighetene for at private utviklere kan realisere seniorboligprosjekter. Vefsn er et område hvor boligmarkedet har et moderat prisnivå. Den innsamlede empirien tilsier at kombinasjonen av moderate boligpriser og høye byggekostnader er den største utfordringen for realisering av seniorboligprosjekter. Den økonomiske risikoen dette medfører virker å gjøre slik utvikling lite attraktivt blant utviklere. Dette skaper et behov for nye løsninger og virkemidler. Støtte fra Husbanken og samarbeid med kommunen vil derfor være viktig.
For at et seniorboligprosjekt skal fungere etter sin hensikt framstår sentral plassering som en avgjørende kvalitet. Nærhet til tilbud og møteplasser kan være viktig for å tilrettelegge for en aktiv og sosial livsstil. Slike tomter er imidlertid et knapphetsgode. En utforming som legger til rette for tilgjengelighet og sosialt samvær vil også være viktig. Empirien viser at fellesarealer, gjesterom og god tilrettelegging vil være sentrale kvaliteter ved utformingen av seniorboliger. De økonomiske rammene setter likevel begrensninger for hva slags prosjekt som er mulig å gjennomføre. For nye boligmodeller kan det også være interessant å vurdere nye organisasjons- og boligkjøpsmodeller. Videre forskning og pilotprosjekter kan derfor være viktig på veien videre.In the following years we will face a demographic change where the percentage of elderly in the population will increase. This calls for action if we are to ensure the elderly of the future a good and appropriate solution. In my master´s thesis I wish to explore senior housing as a possible solution to this issue. Meeting the needs associated with an aging population by expanding the healthcare and welfare services will be economically demanding. The development of housing that enables an independent daily life can therefore be an important supplement to managing an aging population.
The thesis is based on Vefsn municipality as a case area. This thesis explores the challenges and opportunities for private developers to implement senior housing projects. The housing market in Vefsn is characterized with by moderate price levels. The gathered empirical data indicates that the combination of moderate housing prices and high construction costs is the main obstacle for the implementation of senior housing projects. The financial risk this involves may make such development unattractive for private developers. This creates a need for innovative solutions and alternative approaches. Support from The Norwegian State Housing Bank (Husbanken) and cooperating with the municipality will therefore be crucial.
For a senior housing project to serve its intended purpose, a central location emerges as an important quality. Access to services and social spaces can be crucial for promoting an active and social lifestyle. However, such plots are a limited resource. A layout that supports accessibility and social engagement will also be essential. The empirical data shows that common areas, guest rooms and thoughtful design will be key qualities in the development of senior housings. However, the financial boundaries impose limits on the type of project that can be developed. New housing models could also benefit from considering innovative organizational and home purchase models. Further research and pilot projects can therefore be essential moving forward
Part 2 of the risk assessment of nitrate, nitrite and nitrosamines in food: The protocol
Get PDFThe Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM) shall assess whether exposure to nitrates and nitrites from food poses a health risk for one or more groups in the Norwegian population. The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM) will calculate the intake of nitrate and nitrite from food for different groups in the population and assess whether this constitutes a health risk. This is a two-part task commissioned by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority. As the first step, VKM has created an overview of which food items contain these substances and how much nitrate and nitrite they contain. The second part of the task is underway, where VKM will estimate nitrate and nitrite intake among different demographic groups in Norway and conduct a risk assessment. Background There is no existing data on which food items in the Norwegian market contain nitrate and nitrite, nor on the amounts present. Furthermore, the intake of nitrate and nitrite among different population groups in Norway is not known. Nitrate and nitrite can occur naturally in food and may also be added as a preservative or plant extract. Preservatives E 249, E 250, E 251, and E 252 are used to delay bacterial growth, thereby increasing food shelf life. Nitrate and nitrite have been linked to both positive and negative health effects. Read more about part 1 here: Foods containing nitrate and nitrite - Vitenskapskomiteen for mat og miljø (...)Part 2 of the risk assessment of nitrate, nitrite and nitrosamines in food: The protocolpublishedVersio
Assessment of genetically modified maize DAS1131 for food and feed uses, import and processing under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 (application GMFF-2021-1530)
Get PDFThe Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM) has assessed an application for approval of the genetically modified maize DAS1131 for food and feed uses, import and processing in the EU. In accordance with an assignment specified by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority (NFSA) and the Norwegian Environment Agency (NEA), VKM assesses whether genetically modified organisms (GMOs) intended for the European market can pose risks to human or animal health, or the environment in Norway. VKM assesses the scientific documentation regarding GMO applications seeking approval for use of GMOs as food and feed, processing, or cultivation. The EU Regulation 1829/2003/EC (Regulation) covers living GMOs that fall under the Norwegian Gene Technology Act, as well as processed food and feed from GMOs (dead material) that fall under the Norwegian Food Act. The regulation is currently not part of the EEA agreement or implemented in Norwegian law. Norway conducts its own assessments of GMO applications in preparation for the possible implementation of the Regulation. In accordance with the assignment by NFSA and NEA, VKM assesses GMO applications during scientific hearings initiated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), as well as after EFSA has published its own risk assessment of a GMO, up until EU member countries vote for or against approval in the EU Commission. The assignment is divided into three stages. (link) Genetically modified maize DAS1131 DAS1131 is a genetically modified maize developed by Agrobacterium tumefaciens -mediated transformation. Maize DAS1131 plants contain the transgenes cry1Da2 and dgt-28 epsps which encode the protein Cry1Da2 and the enzyme DGT-28 EPSPS, respectively. Cry1Da2 provides resistance to certain susceptible Lepidopteran (order of butterflies and moths) pests and the enzyme DGT-28 EPSPS provides tolerance to glyphosate-based herbicides. VKM has assessed the documentation in application GMFF-2021-1530 and EFSA's scientific opinion on genetically modified maize DAS1131. VKM concludes that the applicant's scientific documentation for the genetically modified maize DAS1131 is satisfactory for risk assessment, and in accordance with EFSA guidelines for risk assessment of genetically modified plants for food or feed uses. The genetic modifications in maize DAS1131do not indicate an increased health or environmental risk in Norway compared with EU countries. EFSA's risk assessment is therefore sufficient also for Norwegian conditions. As no specific Norwegian conditions have been identified regarding properties of the genetically modified maize DAS1131, VKM's GMO panel has not performed a complete risk assessment of the maize. About the assignment: In stage 1, VKM shall assess the health and environmental risks of the genetically modified organism and derived products in connection with the EFSA scientific hearing of GMO applications. VKM shall review the scientific documentation that the applicant has submitted and possibly provide comments to EFSA. VKM must also consider: i) whether there are specific Norwegian conditions that could give other risks in Norway than those mentioned in the application, ii) whether the Norwegian diet presents a different health risk for the Norwegian population should the GMO be approved, compared to the European population, and iii) risks associated with co-existence with conventional and/or ecologic production of plants for GMOs seeking approval for cultivation. Relevant measures to ensure co-existence must also be considered. In stage 2, VKM shall assess whether comments from Norway have been satisfactorily answered by EFSA. In addition, VKM shall assess whether comments from other countries imply need for further follow-up. (...)Assessment of genetically modified maize DAS1131 for food and feed uses, import and processing under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 (application GMFF-2021-1530)publishedVersio