Socio-ecological impacts of industrial aquaculture and ways forward to sustainability

Abstract

In recent decades, we have witnessed a rapid increase in world aquaculture production, the so-called ‘blue revolution’. So as to provide a holistic overview of the socio-ecological threats coupled with this increase, a literature review has been conducted. The following seven major socio-ecological impacts were identified: (i) the damage and destruction of natural environments, (ii) discharges; (iii) a risk to wild fish and shellfish populations, (iv) spatial conflicts, (v) threats to food security, (vi) unfairness in the access to commons; and (vii) the unequal distribution of benefits. So as to move forward from ‘blue revolution’ to a ‘blue evolution’ and attain sustainable aquaculture, the following tools have been identified as instrumental for the transition process: technical, management, governance and legal aspects.