The problems in the Oslofjord are complex. They have many causes and involve many stakeholders. Researchers call this type of challenge a wicked problem. It has no simple solution. It requires cooperation and different types of knowledge.
Professor Gunnar Andersson used the question “Can we research the Oslofjord clean?” to discuss what it means to be a researcher. Researchers ask questions, collect knowledge and test ideas. They also work with people who have practical experience.
The discussion was based on a pilot project running from 1 March to 30 December 2026. The project will remove ghost fishing gear and marine litter from the Oslofjord. It will also explore whether collected materials can be reused or recycled. The aim is to connect environmental action with learning, innovation and new business opportunities.
The pilot can be seen as part of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021–2030. This global initiative aims to protect and restore damaged ecosystems.
The project is a partnership between the Training Office for Fisheries and Fishing at Hvaler, the Norwegian Fishermen’s Association, local professional fishers, Kalnes Upper Secondary School, Hvaler Municipality through Blue Node Utgårdskilen, and Østfold University of Applied Sciences with researchers and students from Innovation and project management programme.
The pilot shows how research, education, industry and local government can work together. The Oslofjord becomes an arena for clean-up, learning and innovation.