A new programme is being launched by the Global Aquaculture Alliance (GAA) to help aquaculture farmers achieve Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification.
The new programme, iBAP, with the ‘i’ representing ‘improver’, will aim to encourage those capable of attaining BAP to take part in a deadline-driven improver programme and help them apply for the certification.
“iBAP will incentivise improvement by opening new business opportunities,” said Iain Shone, development director, GAA. “Improver programmes are well supported by the marketplace.”
“The message is strong: sign up to iBAP and your product can be supplied to a greater range of customers wishing to support the development of responsible aquaculture. If a facility benefits then they are more likely to make improvements on the ground and move into certification,” he added.
GAA’s programme will target farms predominantly but is open to other parts of the aquaculture supply chain like hatcheries. Facilities can apply directly or through organisations acting on their behalf, such as a processor or buyer.
Facilities are required to agree to a step-by-step improvement plan with clearly defined timeframes. Failure to comply will result in dismissal from the programme.
For information on how to apply email ibap@gaalliance.org
