Vision for sustainable aquaculture

The Vision for sustainable aquaculture describes the Scottish Government’s long-term aspirations to 2045 for the finfish, shellfish and seaweed farming sectors, and the wider aquaculture supply chain.


3 Our Vision

The Scottish Government supports the development of a sustainable aquaculture sector, operating within environmental limits, and recognises the considerable social and economic benefits the sector delivers today and can deliver in the future.

This Vision is for aquaculture across Scotland, and will be realised through all stakeholders working together, including industry, regulators, government, enterprise agencies, academia, NGOs and communities.

The Scottish Government’s Vision for Sustainable Aquaculture in Scotland in 2045 is one where:

Its produce makes a significant contribution to Scotland’s reputation for premium food and drink - people at home and abroad choose our aquaculture products because they are high quality, healthy foods, farmed under strong environmental stewardship

Our communities are supported through the provision of highly skilled employment opportunities, access to healthy local foods and other lasting benefits

Its environmental impact is within acceptable limits, with continual progress to minimise that impact through innovation, research and development

The aquaculture sector collaborates with other stakeholders to protect and restore biodiversity in the freshwater and marine environment

High standards for farmed animal health and welfare are a priority, maintaining Scotland’s high health status and declared freedom from listed fish and shellfish diseases

Development happens in the right places, underpinned by an effective and efficient regulatory framework informed by the best available science and evidence

The sector is leading the way in reaching net zero and adapting to the challenges arising from climate change

Continual innovation facilitates opportunities for a highly resource efficient and productive industry to responsibly maximise value from the production process

The sector is flourishing, attracting investment and delivering significant economic benefit to Scotland through domestic and international trade and through its supply chain

Contact

Email: aquaculture.vision@gov.scot

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