Research project The politics of invasive alien species in Sweden: Affective alliances and heritage work
This three-year project explores the cultural aspects of the managing and the understanding of so-called invasive alien species.
The perspective is broad, encompassing work in gardens, as well as strategies and practices at regional and national levels.
Project description
Invasive alien species, i.e. "non-native species that affect the ecosystem that they colonizes" (NE), have recently engaged and aroused strong emotions. The starting point of this project is that the engagement and reactions are not solely related to environmental and ecological considerations, but are largely rooted in cultural notions of belonging and alienation. What is regarded as alien in a landscape is linked to memories of what it looked like in the past. Cultural heritage, traditions, and notions of nationhood also play a role. In this project, these cultural aspects are central, and we will investigate the emotional, cultural, and meaning-making dimensions of the phenomenon of invasive species.
The general aim is to understand how environmental engagement can be culturally permeated. To understand this, the project examines how invasive alien species (both animals and plants) are identified, understood, and managed by, among others, gardeners, businesses, and authorities. Which species are identified as invasive and alien, and what motivations and threats are articulated? What is legitimate knowledge and practice when dealing with invasive species? What ideas about previous natural and cultural landscapes come into play? What alliances and conflicts arise?
We follow how garden owners handle species perceived as intruders, but also how they handle plants that they appreciate but which are classified as invasive by authorities, such as lupins and Japanese knotweed. We investigate a coastal area in Bohuslän where a new oyster species has given rise to conflicting feelings and reactions. We also study how state nature conservation authorities approach invasive species. The method is ethnographic, and we study how work with invasive species is done, and conduct interviews to find out how people think and feel. We will also collect and analyze texts, such as informational materials and policy reports.
Project members
Project managers
Mattias Frihammar
Universitetslektor
Members
Lars Kaijser
Professor
Maja Lagerqvist
