The global demand for seafood has led to an increase in aquaculture production, driving operations to increasingly remote and exposed ocean environments. While these areas offer new opportunities, they also present significant challenges due to harsh weather conditions and operational complexities. To ensure the sustainability and success of exposed aquaculture, it is imperative to prioritize fish welfare, personnel safety, and technological advancements.
Researchers from SINTEF Ocean (Norway) and the Norwegian Institute for Marine Research published a scientific review in the journal Reviews in Aquaculture, analyzing recent research advancements in the areas of safety, fish welfare, and exposed fish farming technology internationally, with a special focus on the Norwegian salmon farming industry.
A Growing Industry Facing Limitations
The Norwegian salmon farming industry, a pioneer in aquaculture, has experienced remarkable growth over the decades. However, its expansion has been constrained by environmental factors and the availability of suitable coastal zones. To overcome these limitations, industry leaders have explored the potential of exposed aquaculture as a viable solution.
Relocating aquaculture to more exposed and remote areas could mitigate some of the controversies and issues associated with traditional aquaculture, such as pollution and the overuse of coastal areas. However, this transition also poses significant challenges in terms of fish welfare and personnel safety, which must be addressed through specific strategies and technological advancements.
The Unique Challenges of Exposed Aquaculture
While exposed aquaculture offers several advantages, such as reduced environmental impact and greater access to resources, it also presents unique challenges. Harsh weather conditions, remote locations, and dynamic aquatic environments require innovative approaches to ensure personnel safety and the welfare of farmed fish.
Fish Welfare in Challenging Conditions
Understanding the adaptive capacities of farmed fish in exposed environments is crucial for their welfare. Recent research has delved into the impact of strong currents and waves on the welfare of salmon. By studying indicators such as stress hormones, behavior, and physiological parameters, scientists are gaining valuable insights into how these fish adapt to demanding conditions. These findings can inform best practices for site selection, equipment design, and management strategies to minimize stress and optimize fish health.
Prioritizing Human Safety
Ensuring the safety of personnel working in exposed aquaculture operations is paramount. Significant progress has been made in operational safety management, accident analysis, and emergency preparedness. By implementing robust safety protocols, conducting thorough risk assessments, and developing effective emergency response plans, the industry can mitigate hazards and protect workers’ lives.
Technological Innovations for Resilience
Advances in technology are playing a crucial role in improving the safety and efficiency of exposed aquaculture. Research has focused on environmental load analysis, vessel design, and fish farm simulations to better understand the forces exerted by waves and currents on structures and equipment. This knowledge is essential for designing more resilient and durable infrastructure.
Additionally, the development of autonomous contactless lifting operations and hole detection methods represents a significant breakthrough in aquaculture infrastructure maintenance. These innovations can reduce the risk of accidents, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure the long-term sustainability of exposed aquaculture operations.
A Multidisciplinary Approach
Addressing the challenges of exposed aquaculture requires a multidisciplinary approach that integrates research from various fields. By combining expertise in fish biology, engineering, oceanography, and safety management, scientists can develop innovative solutions that enhance fish welfare, protect human lives, and ensure the long-term viability of this vital industry.
While recent advancements have undoubtedly improved the safety and robustness of exposed aquaculture operations, continued research and development are essential to address emerging challenges and ensure the well-being of both fish and personnel.
Implications for Aquaculture in Exposed Areas
Although the primary focus of the study is on the salmon farming industry in Norway, the findings have significant implications for aquaculture in exposed environments worldwide. Improvements in safety, animal welfare, and technology are applicable to different regions and species, highlighting the need for global cooperation in research to develop sustainable and efficient practices.
Conclusion
Exposed aquaculture is a sustainable and scalable solution to meet the global demand for seafood. However, realizing its full potential requires a concerted effort to address the unique challenges associated with operating in hostile ocean environments. By prioritizing fish welfare, ensuring personnel safety, and leveraging technological advancements, the industry can pave the way toward a more resilient and sustainable future for aquaculture.
The study was developed as part of the activities of the SFI EXPOSED research center and was funded by the Research Council of Norway.
Contact
Kristine Vedal Størkersen
SINTEF Ocean
Trondheim, Norway
Email: kristine.storkersen@sintef.no
Reference (open access)
Bjelland, H. V., Folkedal, O., Føre, H. M., Grøtli, E. I., Holmen, I. M., Lona, E., Slette, H. T., Størkersen, K. V., & Thorvaldsen, T. Exposed Aquaculture Operations: Strategies for Safety and Fish Welfare. Reviews in Aquaculture. https://doi.org/10.1111/raq.12964
