On 8 April 2009, a communication on "Building a sustainable future for aquaculture" was issued by the European Commission, giving new political impetus and guidelines for the sustainable development of European aquaculture. Amongst many ambitious approaches proposed in the communication, the Commission stresses the importance of research and technological development, maritime spatial planning systems and the compatibility between aquaculture and environment. This European Strategy will apply at EU, national and local levels.
On 8 April 2009, a communication on "Building a sustainable future for aquaculture" was issued by the European Commission, giving new political impetus and guidelines for the sustainable development of European aquaculture.
Aquaculture has become an important food sector in the EU. At the same time, the industry is relatively new and fast-changing so that new strategic approaches are needed to address the challenges. In 2002, the Commission presented a "Strategy for sustainable development of aquaculture". The measures for implementation foreseen in that Strategy have been launched and the 2002 Strategy broadly achieved its objectives.
The 2009 communication focuses on EU leadership and guidance to both stakeholders and administrations to ensure consistency and clarity in designing the policies needed for sustainable development.
One of the key approaches is the promotion of competitiveness of EU aquaculture production by supporting research and technological development. Particular attention is paid to the establishment of the European Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Platform (EATIP) and to maritime spatial planning. In this context, the European Commission introduces the Integrated Coastal Zone Management, as identified in the framework of the EU Maritime Policy, and calls for developing marine spatial planning systems.
Another striking aspect in the 2009 communication is the set up of conditions for sustainable growth. Amongst other ambitions, the communication highlights the significance of the compatibility between aquaculture and environment. Through advanced research and technology, aquaculture must be an industry that is environmentally compatible. Taking this into account, environmental protection will be granted and sustainability and safety challenges tackled in a more efficient way.
This European Strategy will apply at EU, national and local levels and all actors, both public and private, are expected to take measures that fall within their responsibilities.
More information at: http://ec.europa.eu/fisheries/cfp/aquaculture_processing/pdf/com_2009_162_en.pdf