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Happy Earth Day! Today we are reminded how precious earth is and how we each have a social and environmental responsibility to help protect our planet.

AQUACULTURE.

Investing in sustainability.

Aquaculture has been around for thousands of years, but only in the last few decades has seafood farming evolved into an almost $25 billion industry — and shows no signs of slowing. In fact, research shows aquaculture will need to more than double by 2050 to meet the demands of earth’s growing population. It’s been pivotal in improving food security, creating economic growth, and minimizing the strain on wild caught seafood — but with such growth also comes big responsibilities.

 

At Aqua Star, we know the future of the seafood industry relies on sourcing seafood in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. Without global guidance, regulation, and ultimately consumer demand for more sustainably sourced seafood, aquaculture can have major pitfalls. But these challenges can be remedied with the proper standards and reinforcement. The benefits to sustainable seafood farming are undeniable and well worth the investment.

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Improves Food Security

Responsible aquaculture is becoming more well known as one of the most environmentally sustainable ways to produce and provide much-needed protein worldwide. The value of adding seafood to one’s diet is without question. Expanding seafood production can help reduce malnutrition rates in developing countries and help more people include seafood in their diets, improving nutrition and well-being everywhere.

Creates Socioeconomic Opportunities

At Aqua Star, we are dedicated to the long-term health of the local economies in which we operate— and to the well-being of the people who depend on them. Aquaculture provides sustainable economic growth, creates job opportunities year-round and supports working waterfronts and coastal communities. It also drives employment in other areas of industry, such as seafood processing and feed, and equipment manufacturing. Aquaculture stimulates economies far and wide.

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Environmental Benefits

There are certainly environmental impacts associated with aquaculture. However, if done thoughtfully with strict standards and reinforcement, aquaculture operations typically have a smaller carbon footprint and require fewer resources relative to livestock farming. Aquaculture is considered more efficient at producing protein for human consumption than beef, pork, and poultry. Aquaculture also minimizes the strain on wild fishing, benefiting the entire ecosystem of our oceans.

By buying seafood from responsible, environmentally friendly farms, we can feel good about the seafood we’re eating, knowing our choices are contributing toward a future filled with enough seafood for everyone to enjoy. It will take continued industry and consumer demand to keep regulations in check and sustainable farms thriving.

Keep an eye out for these certifications to be sure you are supporting sustainable farms.

CLICK HERE for tasty seafood recipes and make eating
sustainable seafood a lifetime habit.

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