Framing scales and scaling frames

Policy problems are not just out there. Actors highlight different aspects of a situation as problematic and situate the problem on different scales. In this study we will analyse the way actors apply scales in their talk (or texts) to frame the complex decision-making process of the establishment of a so-called ‘new mixed company’ or ‘mega-farm’ in a small town in the Netherlands. According to the proponents, the establishment of the mega farm offers scale benefits related to environmental and economic issues on the higher regional, national and maybe even European and global level. However locally many citizens and an interest group are afraid this development will harm human health, will bring more transport of large vehicles to the area, and will destroy their landscape.
In this exploratory paper we will first introduce our study, next develop a conceptual framework, followed by a description of our case, the methodology used and some preliminary results. We will give an initial answer to the question how actors use different scale frames to make sense of the mega-farm issue. More specifically we will discuss how different actors use scales to construct their arguments/credibility. In the discussion we will reflect on the implications of the ‘scaling’ practices.