Plans to increase the productivity of Scotland’s aquaculture sector and help reduce its impact on the environment are drawn up in a new strategy by the Scottish government.
The Vision for Sustainable Aquaculture will be delivered in cooperation with businesses and other stakeholders.
It will also seek to harness the potential Scotland has to develop its Blue Economy and create more sustainable economic and social benefit from fish, seafood and seaweed farming in the future.
“Scotland’s aquaculture sector is a significant contributor to our economy,” said Mairi Gougeon, rural affairs secretary.
Farmed salmon continues to be hugely popular in both domestic and foreign markets whilst Scottish businesses are at the very forefront of global innovation within the industry.”
Driving improvement
The Vision for Sustainable Aquaculture includes measures that will: Safeguard the natural environment, support innovation across the sector, ensure local communities receive lasting benefits from aquaculture and promote new infrastructure and supply chain developments.
The aim is to allow the industry to continue to flourish whilst placing a renewed emphasis on environmental protection and community benefits.
“We welcome this vision which puts salmon farming at the heart of the country’s economic growth plans, helping Scotland’s journey to net zero and supporting healthy diets,” said Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland.
“The blue economy has the potential to both increase food security at home and feed the growing global population. Scotland is uniquely placed to lead the way in the drive for the sustainable use of the oceans and seas, while conserving our shared environment for future generations.”
