AQUACULTURE could be used to reduce and adapt to the effects of climate change in Fiji. These were the sentiments shared by the Minister for Fisheries Semi Koroilavesau who said aquaculture could be an alternative solution to the country’s production shortfalls.
“Aquaculture is currently estimated to account for approximately 13 per cent, which is equivalent to 10.2 million tonnes of world fish production,” he said.
“With landings from the world’s capture fisheries likely to remain at present levels or worsen, it is expected that an increased production from aquaculture will cover the future shortfall in the supply of fish.
Mr Koroilavesau stated this while delivering the Special Address at the opening of the 2019 World Shrimp Trade Conference and Exposition in Bangkok, Thailand.
Mr Koroilavesau said that the impacts of climate change to coastal agricultural land due to sea level rise was seen as an opportunity to turn idle land into brackish water aquaculture locations for shrimp.
“Over the past decade, we have been baffled with the drastic increase in industrialisation, the surge in human population whilst having to marginalise between the impacts of climate change and the loss of vulnerable resources,” he said.
“Aquaculture is currently estimated to account for approximately 13 per cent, which is equivalent to 10.2 million tonnes of world fish production.
“With landings from the world’s capture fisheries likely to remain at present levels or worsen, it is expected that an increased production from aquaculture will cover the future shortfall in the supply of fish.
According to him for countries like Fiji, it included having the proper science to guide and determine hatchery production.
As well as investing more on innovative production methods, having the proper feed formulation and production, creating improved standards for the grow out stages and always being mindful of market forces which determined supply and demand.
“As we embark into the UN decade of Ocean Science and the implementation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, we have a lot to play,” he said.
“Whether it be on shrimp production or the culture of other marine products, our shared experiences towards a common goal of sustenance is needed.”
He added that if they could learn through their experiences and incorporate a more innovative approach towards aquaculture, 8 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals would be achievable.
“This includes, addressing poverty, hunger, good health and living, clean water and sanitation, sustainable cities and communities, responsible production and consumption, climate action and more importantly ‘life below water’.”
The conference is held from November 12 to 14 with 100 participants from around 23 countries.
According to the statement by the Ministry of Fisheries the conference would shape the future of shrimp production through an inclusive approach which would ensure the world was on par with the latest technology as well as keep up with the effects of climate change worldwide.
