Is Aquaculture the solution for the US’s high demand for seafood imports?
It is becoming increasingly clear that the blue food economy, led by scientists around the world, will play an integral role in the transition to a healthy and sustainable food system. Blue food contains more than 2,500 species of aquatic flora and fauna that are consumed worldwide, including oysters, red shrimp, salmon, and seaweed.
Japan’s marine products supply continues to be affected by climate change. Some species, including wild salmon, are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat. Having an alternative way to produce healthy protein is more important than ever. However, there are no clear licensing processes or national standards for US marine aquaculture in federal waters.
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Large gap in US fishing
Today’s challenge, coupled with the fact that the US fisheries industry is almost entirely dependent on imports from abroad, leaves a large gap in US trade. The world population is projected to reach 9 billion by 2050, so global demand for marine products will continue to grow. Here, the expanded, well-regulated, and carefully planned American aquaculture industry can meet important American food and economic needs. About almost all of the world’s increase in marine products since the 1990s.
Half of todays marine products are cultivated
Since half of all marine products consumed today are cultivated, aquaculture can support a diverse workforce, improve the health system and provide healthy locally produced proteins. It provides a unique opportunity to build the future. Aquaculture creates coveted jobs in coastal areas inside and outside the United States.
It also serves as a market for land farmers who grow agricultural products used as fish feed, such as soybeans, corn, and legumes. It has been shown to be less dependent on scarce land and water resources, while emitting less carbon than some other terrestrial protein sources.
Certain types of aquaculture, such as algae and shellfish farming, provide valuable ecosystem services such as sea purification and carbon sequestration, making them an essential step in combating climate change.
Aquaculture operates in a sustainable manner around the world.
It’s time for America to join the fastest growing food sector in the world. It sets clear definitions to ensure that farmed species are native or established, and sets good sustainability standards for wild-caught fish used as feed ingredients.
At Sysco, we work to improve seafood sustainability and responsible sourcing practices in our international and domestic supply chain. With farmed shrimp, we are shaping the future of seafood sourcing and working to completely transform the shrimp industry. We also support sustainability programs that are committed to protecting natural ecosystems and safeguarding the livelihoods of the millions of people who depend on them. We are promoting such a reliable sustainability program in the aquaculture industry. The United States has technology, marine and land resources for aquaculture management.
The problem in the US is regulations
The only main reason the United States is far behind in production is the lack of a clear regulatory path to approve new projects. Parliamentary action is needed. The legislation will establish a clear licensing process for marine aquaculture in the United States that prioritizes environmental health and American health. The law will establish aquaculture standards similar to those for commercial fishing, as a guiding principle for coastal economic growth and ecosystem protection. I encourage members of Congress to support the responsible development of American aquaculture. By prioritizing indigenous aquaculture, we are more resilient to economic and climate changes. It supports the growth of the American fish community, which is part of a holistic approach to sustainable food strategies.
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Neil Russell is the SVP Corporate Affairs and Chief Communications Officer at Sysco
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