Scotland's marine economic statistics 2018

12. Other marine economic sectors

The information provided in this report is based on available, validated economic data sources. There are other sectors that contribute to the marine economy, such as offshore renewable energy and research and development (R&D). However, because relevant data is not readily available it has not been possible to include them in this report. The estimates within this report are therefore likely to provide a lower bound of the economic value of Scotland's marine economy. 

The fishing section reports on commercial sea fisheries activity. This does not include the coastal netting for wild salmon and trout, which are not currently included within these Marine Economic Statistics as economic data is not available.  

Renewable energy has continued to grow in Scotland and marine renewable energy (wind, wave and tidal) has increased by 214% in capacity and a 142% in generation between 2014 and 2018^[11]. A number of offshore wind developments are under construction and some are now fully operational, including the world's first floating offshore windfarm, with further developments planned. However, while the capacity and generation are well documented, the financial information needed to estimate GVA specifically for the offshore elements of renewable energy is not yet available. In the coming year research is planned to explore the availability of specific marine, renewable energy related economic data in Scotland.  

Seaweed harvesting is also a potential addition to the future marine economy statistics report when data and appropriate methods have been developed.