September 10, 2024

 

EU Advisory Councils call for regulatory changes to boost fisheries and aquaculture by-product valorisation

A coalition of four European Union (EU) Advisory Councils (ACs) has submitted a comprehensive set of recommendations to the European Commission, urging regulatory reforms and enhanced cooperation to improve the valorisation of fisheries and aquaculture by-products, The Fishing Daily reported.

 

The joint advice was endorsed by the North Sea AC, Market AC, Aquaculture AC, and Outermost Regions AC. It outlines the potential for advancing the EU's blue bioeconomy towards a more sustainable and circular system.

 

These recommendations were influenced by the policy event, "Connecting the Dots for a Circular Blue Economy," hosted by MEP Clara Aguilera at the European Parliament in January 2024. Organised by the Blue Bioeconomy ERA-NET Cofund (BlueBio), the event focused on strategies to bring bio-based aquatic products and services to the market. Despite opportunities for significant progress, regulatory barriers continue to impede innovation, investment, and growth in the EU fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

 

The joint advice includes three case studies demonstrating the challenges and prospects in valorising fisheries and aquaculture by-products. For BlueBioChain, this project aimed to convert wastewater from food industries and aquaculture farms into high-value products through microalgae. Regulatory hurdles related to safety, quality standards, and environmental regulations were identified as major obstacles to further progress.

 

For MariGreen, this project focused on the production of fertilisers and bio stimulants from blue residues. It underscored the difficulties in using fish processing waste and aquaculture sludge in agriculture due to existing EU regulations.

 

For AquaHealth, this initiative explored the use of bioactive compounds from microalgae microbiomes for sustainable health management in aquaculture. The project emphasised the need for streamlined and harmonised regulatory processes to foster innovation.

 

In its recommendations, the ACs stressed the need for regulatory flexibility and cooperation to promote innovation and sustainability in fisheries and aquaculture. The ACs urged the European Commission to revisit the 2009 Animal By-Product Regulation to align with circular economy principles. Specifically, they proposed classifying fish excreta as manure, making it suitable for use as fertiliser.

 

The ACs also called for harmonised feed regulations across EU member states to facilitate market entry and ensure consistent standards.

 

The joint advice highlights the vital role of the EU fisheries and aquaculture sectors in advancing towards a sustainable food system and fostering the bioeconomy. The ACs urged the European Commission to consider their proposals and engage in further dialogue to ensure the regulatory framework supports innovation, sustainability, and the circular use of marine resources.

 

- The Fishing Daily