EU initiative will help the aquaculture industry
Warmer oceans present challenges for the aquaculture industry. According to the EU project OCCAM, small solutions can make a big difference when they are smart, applicable, and scalable.
“In the recently awarded EU project OCCAM, the aim is to develop, test, and scale up concrete solutions that make the aquaculture sector more robust and environmentally friendly,” says project coordinator and senior scientist at Nofima, Petter Olsen.
The research project recently kicked off in Tromsø.
New technology addresses climate challenges
OCCAM – Operationalising Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation in European Aquaculture – brings together 22 partners from research, industry, and organisations across Europe, and is led by Nofima.
“A warmer climate is a challenge for the aquaculture industry. In this project, we will create practical solutions, digital tools, and smart methods to improve aquaculture processes for various species in many European countries. This will help producers adapt to changes in temperature,” the project coordinator adds.
“Some of the solutions are digital, while others consist of new or improved processes or the development and introduction of best practice recommendations,” he concludes.
Solutions for both large and small producers
Researchers and stakeholders from both the aquaculture sector and technology developers will also produce training materials and advice for policymakers, so that knowledge can be applied throughout the industry. Nine different case studies in Europe will ensure that the solutions are suitable for both small and large operators.
Climate change brings challenges for aquaculture, such as higher temperatures, more extreme weather, and changes in the marine environment. OCCAM is an important step towards ensuring safe and sustainable food production from the sea in the future.
About the project
The project will run for four years and is supported by Horizon Europe – the EU’s largest innovation and research programme. Nofima is leading the project and is joined by a number of European partners from both industry and research.
Partners
- Nofima
- UiT The arctic university of Norway
- Submariner Network of Blue Growth
- SAMS
- Fiskaaling P/F
- Avrik
- ICES
- Luna P/F
- Sjokovin
- Matis
- Akva Group ASA
- Grieg Seafood ASA
- Samherji hf.
- Zachodniopomorski Uniwersytet Technologicny
- Agencia Estatal Consejo Superior de Investigacio
- Caviar Pirinea SL
- Inskie Centurm Rybactwa Spolka Zoo
- Proinsa
- Ostrea Production
- IVL Svenska Miljoeinstitutet AB
- Nordic Seafarm AB
- The Scottish Association for Marinescience LBG
Funded by the European Union under Grant Agreement N° 101182044. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor REA can be held responsible for them.
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Topics
Climate change