NOAA provided scientific expertise on the guidelines, which will develop global aquaculture best practices.
Aquaculture now produces more seafood than wild harvesting, according to a recent UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report. As global reliance on seafood farming for nutritious food grows, sustainable development of aquaculture is critical. The FAO’s Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture aim to establish best practices worldwide. NOAA contributed to these guidelines, ensuring North American aquaculture needs were included while balancing global needs.
Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food production sector, driven by technology and increased seafood demand. However, its rapid growth presents environmental, social, and economic sustainability challenges. The new guidelines address these issues by proposing a framework that benefits people, oceans, and coastal economies. The envisioned sector aims to fight global hunger, improve economies and living standards for seafood farmers, and increase resilience to climate change.
Read the new Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture on the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization Website, and learn more about NOAA’s work in sustainable aquaculture.