Aquaculture, also known as aquafarming, is the farming of aquatic plants and animals, including fish, shellfish, and seaweed, in controlled environments (NOAA Fisheries, 2021). Aqua culture has emerged as a promising solution to meet the growing demand for seafood, and it is becoming increasingly important in ensuring the sustainability of our oceans.
Aquaculture and Sustainable Seafood
Overfishing and other unsustainable fishing practices have led to declines in wild fish populations, and aquaculture provides a way to meet the growing demand for seafood without further depleting wild populations.
One of the main benefits is that it can be done using sustainable practices that promote the health of the aquatic environment. Sustainable practices include using biodegradable materials for aquafarming equipment, monitoring water quality to ensure that aquatic animals are not exposed to harmful toxins, and promoting the use of recycled materials for aquafarming (The World Bank, 2018).
Related Groups in Aqua Culture
There are several organizations and groups that are related aquafarming. I have broken them up into separate categories that make the most sense.
Aquaculture Associations
There are several associations that promote sustainable practices and advocate for policies that support the growth of the aquaculture industry. These associations provide resources and support for farmers and work to educate the public about the benefits. Here are some of the big groups.
- Global Aquaculture Alliance– is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1997 with the mission of promoting responsible aquaculture practices and creating a more sustainable seafood supply chain. The GAA is headquartered in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in the United States, and has a global presence with members and partners located in over 50 countries.
- The Aquaculture Stewardship Council– The ASC’s mission is to transform the aquaculture industry into a more sustainable and responsible source of seafood by setting and promoting global standards for responsible aquaculture.
- The World Aquaculture Society– The WAS’s mission is to promote and facilitate the development of aquaculture practices that are environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically viable.
Environmental Groups
Many environmental groups are concerned about the impact on the environment and work to promote sustainable practices. These groups advocate for policies that protect the health of the aquatic environment and promote the use of sustainable practices.
- Marine Stewardship Council- An international non-profit organization that was established in 1997 to promote and certify sustainable fishing practices worldwide.
- The Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program– The Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program is a science-based program that was created in 1999 to help consumers and businesses make informed decisions about sustainable seafood. The program is part of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a non-profit organization located in Monterey, California, USA.
- The Sustainable Fisheries Partnership– The SFP’s mission is to improve the sustainability of seafood production by engaging and partnering with seafood buyers, suppliers, and producers to create measurable and positive change in the seafood industry.
Fishermen’s Associations
Some fishermen’s associations are becoming involved in aquaculture as a way to diversify their income streams and promote sustainable fishing practices. These associations work to promote the use of sustainable aquaculture practices and help fishermen to transition into the aquaculture industry. Some of the major fishermen’s associations include:
- The National Fisheries Institute– The SFP’s mission is to improve the sustainability of seafood production by engaging and partnering with seafood buyers, suppliers, and producers to create measurable and positive change in the seafood industry.
- The Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance– The CAIA’s mission is to promote the sustainable development of the Canadian aquaculture industry by advocating for policies that support growth and innovation, and by providing leadership and expertise to the industry
- The European Aquaculture Society– The EAS’s mission is to promote sustainable aquaculture practices in Europe and to support the development of the European aquaculture industry. The organization works to advance the knowledge and understanding of aquaculture through research, education, and outreach programs, and it promotes the adoption of sustainable and responsible aquaculture practices.
Working Together on the Aquaculture Movement
In the realm of aquaculture, various organizations collaborate in different ways to promote sustainable practices and make oceans better. The Aquaculture Stewardship Council and the Marine Stewardship Council establish standards and certification programs to ensure responsible seafood production. Through this promotion of standards, these organizations help to minimize the impact of seafood production on the environment.
Furthermore, the European Aquaculture Society and the World Aquaculture Society engage in research and development activities, conducting research on fish health, water quality, and aquaculture technology. These organizations share their findings with other stakeholders to promote best practices in the industry.
Policies and regulations that support sustainable aquaculture practices are also advocated for by some organizations, such as the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance and the National Fisheries Institute. These organizations provide expertise and input to governments and other stakeholders in the development of these policies, promoting environmental sustainability, food safety, and economic growth.
Finally, the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership, the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program, and other organizations conduct education and outreach programs to promote sustainable seafood consumption. Through their efforts, these organizations increase awareness of the importance of sustainable aquaculture practices and encourage sustainable seafood choices. By sharing knowledge and expertise, these organizations work to ensure that seafood production is sustainable, socially responsible, and environmentally friendly, and that the oceans remain healthy and productive for generations to come.
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