March 16, 2016

                                                                

European researchers embark on 4-year study of regional aquaculture

 

 

European experts will commence on a four-year study in exploring new strategies and models for sustainable growth in the aquaculture industry.

 

The Tools for Assessment and Planning of Aquaculture Sustainability (TAPAS) project is funded by close to EUR7 million (US$7.8 million) and headed by the University of Stirling in the UK.

 

The goal is to develop cost-efficient management tools and practices for the European aquaculture sector to investigate the scope of fish and shellfish farming activity in a location, social interactions, potential environmental impacts and future risks.

 

A comprehensive "toolbox" will eventually be established to aid transparent and efficient licensing, and improve environmental sustainability and aquatic food security while examining the potential for food production and job creation.

 

"As a Consortium, we will evaluate structures currently in operation across the EU's seas, lakes and rivers, examining various environments and developing new approaches to deliver computer-based support systems for sustainable aquaculture expansion," said Professor Trevor Telfer of the Institute of Aquaculture, the leader of the study.

 

All researches would contribute to the EU's Marine Strategy Framework Directive that is purposed to protect marine environments more effectively and will provide consistent real-time monitoring, observation, early forecasting and management technologies.

 

In addition, it will be of a key benefit to the European Commission's strategy to achieve smart growth in aquaculture production across the region's seas.

 

A great boost to the economy, works on these waters currently represent about 5.4 million jobs and generate a gross added value of close to EUR500 billion (US$555 billion) per annum.

 

"As Europe continues to produce millions of tonnes of food each year, we want to ensure this industry is feeding the world in a sustainable way, while taking care of the environment," Dr Ian Payne of the Aquaculture Stewardship Council commented. "By developing new, flexible and unified approaches to aquaculture planning, we aim to strengthen sustainable growth in the vital marine and freshwater sectors."

 

The team will work with industry, regulators, certifiers and other stakeholders in ensuring the accessibility of the toolbox. This would be conducted through training and outreach in order to support the reputation of European aquaculture as well as promoting an integrated sustainability strategy.

 

"The breadth of experience gained through our 15 consortium partners brings together sophisticated technologies, such as computer models and satellite observations, and decision making capabilities into a streamlined toolkit for regulators and producers throughout Europe," Dr Stefan Simis of Plymouth Marine Laboratory explained.

 

"Today's announcement of EUR7 million to improve the future sustainability of aquaculture as part of the Tools for Assessment and Planning of Aquaculture Sustainability project is great news," Dr. Aileen McLeod, South Scotland's Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform, said. "This significant award reinforces Scotland's reputation as an international centre of excellence at the forefront of aquaculture science, technology and research."

 

Dr. McLeod also highlighted Scotland's "world class" fish farming sector which generates £1.86 billion (US$2.6 million) yearly and supports 8,300 jobs.

 

"This industry has fantastic potential to achieve further sustainable growth, aided by our cutting edge research capability such as that at Stirling, often in co-operation with international partners," she added.