Can you tell us a bit about your academic and research journey?
My research journey has felt like an exciting adventure with several unexpected turns! Initially, I conducted market research and provided consulting for local businesses in Vietnam, before diving into policy analysis using both quantitative and qualitative methods during my master's study in Japan. My research became even more fascinating when I moved to Norway for my Ph.D., where I explored aquaculture economics under the impacts of climate change. Extensive travel to shrimp farms and direct interactions with farmers and stakeholders provided valuable insights, bridging theoretical knowledge and practical skills, deeply shaping my passion for this field.
For those of us that are not familiar with this position - what will you do as a postdoc in Dsolve?
As a postdoc in the Dsolve project, my role involves evaluating governance proposals and policy incentives aimed at reducing plastic waste from Norwegian and European salmon farming across various production technologies. I examine policies influencing both producers and consumers to foster sustainable practices and reduce plastic pollution. Additionally, I continue working on sustainable aquaculture practices with partners in Asian countries, bridging diverse perspectives and markets. As part of the Marine Resource Economics (MRE) group, I also participate in academic activities including courses, publications, collaborative research, and student supervision.
What key experiences or projects from your past research have shaped your expertise in this field?
My research expertise is shaped by skills developed in modelling, survey design, data analysis, and preparing publications derived from my Ph.D. and subsequent projects. Collaboration and networking with diverse stakeholders have significantly enriched my practical understanding. Particularly impactful were extensive field trips during my Ph.D., visiting shrimp and fish farms and processing factories across central and southern Vietnam, conducting interviews with farmers, exporters, government representatives, NGOs, FAO, and consumers. These experiences revealed the real-life stories behind the data, enabling me to apply economic analysis effectively to solve practical problems. My continuous curiosity and determination have been instrumental in achieving meaningful results.
What will be your main focus in CRI Dsolve and how does your expertise contribute to ongoing projects?
My main focus at CRI Dsolve involves assessing governance incentives to encourage producers, consumers, and policymakers to adopt sustainable practices and reduce plastic pollution, with particular attention to central aquaculture technologies. Additionally, I emphasize integrating circular economy principles into aquaculture to address increasing plastic challenges. My expertise in economic efficiency analysis, survey design, data analysis, and collaborative publication preparation, combined with stakeholder engagement experiences, helps me provide practical insights and effective policy recommendations. I also actively disseminate my research findings through conferences and team collaborations to raise awareness and promote solutions for plastic waste reduction in aquaculture.
What inspired you to join CRI Dsolve, and what is your main motivation for doing a postdoc in CRI Dsolve?
I was drawn to Dsolve because of its practical and impactful approach to addressing pressing global challenges, such as plastic waste reduction. With the rapid growth of aquaculture to meet global food demands, awareness among consumers, producers, and policymakers is crucial for mitigating plastic pollution, which threatens ocean ecosystems, public health, and global livelihoods. My primary motivation is to contribute actively towards reducing the environmental impacts of aquaculture while continuously learning, collaborating, and spreading this essential message with colleagues and the broader community.
What impact do you hope your work in CRI Dsolve will have, both scientifically and in practical applications?
I aim for my research to provide robust scientific evidence supporting further studies on environmental governance, governance incentives, consumer willingness-to-pay for sustainable alternatives such as biodegradable materials, and plastic waste reduction strategies. Practically, I aspire to help aquaculture producers adopt sustainable practices beneficial for both the environment and local communities, ultimately contributing to meaningful and lasting positive impacts.