News Digest n.1 / 2025
Commission releases recommendations and good practices for sustainable aquaculture
The European Commission has released three new staff working documents promoting sustainable aquaculture in the EU, focusing on access to space and water, climate-change adaptation, and energy transition. These documents, developed in collaboration with EU member states, aquaculture producers, and scientific experts, provide recommendations for a more sustainable and competitive aquaculture.
Status of marine fish and shellfish stocks in European seas
The EU's integrated approach to managing fisheries has led to some recovery, but the overall situation remains critical. The North-East Atlantic and Baltic Seas have 41% of stocks in good biological condition, compared to 9% in the Mediterranean and Black Seas. The EU Common Fisheries Policy aims to restore healthy fish populations and ensure sustainable use, but urgent action is needed to address the issue.
Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture (GSA)
High-level representatives from the European Union, Tunisia, and Türkiye attended a FAO side event to promote the new Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture (GSA) at the Regional Aquaculture Conference for the Mediterranean and Black Sea region. The GSA are the first global normative instrument dedicated solely to aquaculture, one of the world's fastest-growing food production sectors.
EURCAW-Aqua launches its new portal as the EU’s reference for animal welfare in aquaculture
EURCAW-Aqua has launched a website to promote ethical and sustainable aquaculture practices. The platform offers resources, research articles, technical guides, and best practices for treating fish, crustaceans, and molluscs. It also provides interactive educational materials and EU animal welfare regulations.
Bringing innovation in Latvian aquaculture
The TOME Aquaculture Centre, supported by EU funding, is revolutionizing Latvia's aquaculture sector by promoting innovation and sustainable practices. The centre focuses on European catfish breeding research, saltwater Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems, and aquaculture sustainability, enhancing Latvia's aquaculture sector.
