IV - Supporting aquaculture transition
In the previous chapters we saw how EU-funded research initiatives are creating innovative solutions for a more productive and sustainable aquaculture sector. But a competitive, resilient and climate-neutral European aquaculture will also require skills, coordination and climate adaptation. Projects supported by Horizon, EMFAF and LIFE are delivering on this goal.
Planning for the future
Take OCCAM, a project dedicated to providing simple, scalable solutions for mitigating aquaculture’s environmental impact. These solutions cover everything from guidelines for assessing CO2 emissions to species-specific production methods. While OCCAM focuses on mitigation, ActFast looks at climate adaptation. The project is developing a portfolio of data-driven solutions – including AI monitoring tools – that Europe’s aquaculture-focused regions can use to future-proof the industry against a changing climate.
Coordination is key
Achieving climate neutrality won’t happen in a vacuum. It also demands coordination, both across the aquaculture value chain and with other related sectors. The EU Aquaculture Assistance Mechanism is designed as a one-stop shop for the sector, providing an array of support and learning opportunities that Member States, industry and other stakeholders can use in developing a more sustainable aquaculture sector in the EU. Supporting coordination with other sectors is AquaWind, a project that looks to pair fish farming with floating wind farms. By sharing resources, the multi-use project aims to deliver a wide range of economic, environmental and social benefits to the aquaculture sector and beyond.
Training the next generation
A resilient aquaculture sector also needs a skilled workforce. That’s why BlueAquaEdu is providing skills and education for future aquaculture professionals. With the goal of inspiring students to pursue a career in the sector, the project developed a series of interactive games that both introduce players to fish farming, as well as provide training on specific, sustainability-related skills. By providing tools to help the sector adapt to climate change, coordinate with other actors and secure a skilled workforce, the EU is strengthening the sustainability and long-term viability of Europe’s aquaculture sector.