March 8, 2023

EU Commission outlines new measures to improve aquaculture sustainability

The European Commission has proposed a new set of measures to boost the sustainability of the bloc's aquaculture and fishery industries, with the objective of promoting the use of cleaner energy, lowering fossil fuel use, and reducing the sectors' impact on marine ecosystems, Fish Information & Services reported.

The proposals, titled "A Pact for Fisheries and Oceans", will be implemented gradually and will affect all aquaculture and fishing stakeholders in the region.

The EU Commission said aquaculture production was affected by rising fuel and feed prices, adding that the sector benefited from financial assistance from the EU.

The EU Commission also said that in addition to promoting skill development among the workforce, it would work to close gaps in the transfer of technology from research and innovation to application.

It also intends to improve financing options and awareness for the industry.

The EU Commission issued a warning that the sustainability of aquaculture and fishery resources was under threat from climate change, biodiversity loss, and ocean pollution.

In order to reduce aquaculture's impact on the environment and the climate, the report encourages support for low-trophic aquaculture, such as the production of shellfish and algae, as well as multitrophic production.

Four guidance documents for aquaculture will be published by the EU Commission by 2024, part of its its previously issued guidelines for a more sustainable and competitive EU aquaculture for 2021-2030.

-      Fish Information & Services