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Global principles for restorative aquaculture to foster aquaculture practices that benefit the environment

Published Article

Global

Publication date: June 21, 2023

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This study outlines global principles for restorative aquaculture, defining how aquaculture practices can deliver direct ecological benefits, improve water quality, enhance habitat, and support sustainable food systems. It highlights key strategies, species considerations, and data needs to expand environmentally positive aquaculture worldwide.

Subject Tags

  • Nature-based solutions
  • Aquaculture
  • Regenerative food systems

Abstract

The magnitude of negative environmental impacts generated by food production means it is now imperative we develop food systems in a way that can actively support the recovery of degraded ecosystems, while also meeting increasing demands for food and livelihoods. Aquaculture, when it utilizes the right practices and species and occurs in the right places, can strike this balance, enabling food production that supports the health of aquatic ecosystems. To ensure the efficacy of this approach, however, a clear, common understanding of the ways in which this industry can achieve this outcome is needed. This paper highlights a definition of “restorative aquaculture”, identifies global principles for the use and development of restorative practices, and identifies needs for information, data, and tools that, if addressed, would greatly expand our understanding of the ways in which aquaculture and restorative activities can have positive environmental outcomes. This guidance was developed by a working group of representatives from global aquaculture, environment, economic and academic organizations. It can assist industry and government in making decisions about sustainability as well as restoration and rehabilitation strategies that intersect with aquaculture.

Citation

Alleway, H. K., Waters, T. J., Brummett, R., Cai, J., Cao, L., Cayten, M. R., ... & Jones, R. C. (2023). Global principles for restorative aquaculture to foster aquaculture practices that benefit the environment. Conservation Science and Practice, 5(8), e12982.

https://doi.org/10.1111/csp2.12982

TNC Authors