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Message from theEATiP Chairman

In common with many who work in European aquaculture, I have a deep passionfor innovation. I have worked on the creation of new businesses and know thataquaculture is a comprehensive and complicated challenge if one is to be successful,but I love tough challenges.

We have developed EATiP to provide answers to questions, to identify solutions toproblems and develop a framework to guide the European aquaculture sector towardsgrowth and sustainable development.

This document summarises EATiPs Vision and Strategic Research and InnovationAgenda which have integrated the expertise of more than 400 European stakeholdersto identify the ambitions and challenges for European aquaculture. They haverecognised where aquaculture can make signicant contributions to Europe and theassociate needs for successful innovation and development. Their efforts have beenconsiderable, professional and constructive and the Board of Directors and I thank themfor this.

Finally, I wish to recognise the support of the European Commission for its nancing ofthe Aquainnova project, which has enabled the development of different initiatives andconsultation actions described here.

It is therefore both a privilege and a pleasure to present this document, believing rmlythat the realisation of our dream for the future of European aquaculture, our Vision, willbe achieved by 2030.

Gustavo LarrazbalChairman of EATiP


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P. 2 The Future of European Aquaculture - EATiP 2012

T I T L E

Table of Contents

Putting European Aquaculture into context 3

What is Aquaculture? 3

The Role and Contributions of European Aquaculture 3

Challenges to Progress 4

International Dimension 5

EATiP and its Vision for European Aquaculture 6

What are European Technology Platforms? 6

The Vision for European Aquaculture 7

Factors for Success 8

Unlocking the Potential - Growth Forecasts 10

Scenarios for European Aquaculture 10

Coldwater - Vision 2030 11

Freshwater - Vision 2030 12

Shellsh - Vision 2030 13

Mediterranean - Vision 2030 14

Strategic Goals & Plans for Action 15

Consultation with Stakeholders 15

From Planning to Delivery 16

The Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda 18

Product Quality, Consumer Safety and Health 18

Technology and Systems 20

Managing the Biological Lifecycle 22

Sustainable Feed Production 24

Integration with the Environment 26

Knowledge Management 28

Aquatic Animal Health and Welfare 30

Socio-economics, Management & Governance 31

The Plan of Action 34

Mobilising Actors and Resources 34

Initial Priority Actions 34

A Live Document 34

The Way Forward 35

The European Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Platform 37

The EATiP Operating Council 38

List of Members 39


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The Future of European Aquaculture - EATiP 2012 P. 3

P U T T I N G E U R O P E A N A Q U A C U L T U R E I N T O C O N T E X T

What is Aquaculture?

Aquaculture is the cultivation of sh, shellsh (including oysters, mussels, clams and crustaceans) and seaweeds. It hasbeen practiced for thousands of years by such civilisations as the Chinese and the ancient Romans. Progress in technologyand management over the last 60 years have made aquaculture a major contributor to food supply at the global level.

In 2011, according to the FAO, aquaculture produced 63.6 million tons representing 49% of all aquatic fooddestined for human consumption worldwide meaning that it matches food supplies from sheries.

Putting European Aquaculture into Context

The role and contributionsof European Aquaculture

Aquaculture takes place in all EU and EEA Member Statesand creates annually some 2.6 million tons of producefrom both freshwater and the sea, valued at 7 billion. TheEuropean aquaculture sector is today a large and modernindustry, directly employing an estimated 100,000 peoplein production and an additional 90,000 in the service,processing and other linked activities, including research.

European aquaculture has a clear value chain that linkssuppliers to the production sector, through processingand to the nal consumer and provides a clear economicadvantage for Europe, providing jobs, adding valueand lowering import dependence. The core function ofaquaculture is to provide safe food of the highest qualityand nutritional value, across a wide range of productsadapted to consumer preferences and lifestyles.

To full this function, European aquaculture:

Adapts to Evolving Consumer and MarketDemands through the provision of newadded-value and convenience products in supportof consumer lifestyle changes and preferences.

Constantly Applies Technological Advances created by institutional, academic and industrialresearch efforts. Aquaculture has been revolutionisedthrough developments in diet, veterinary treatments,stock selection and farming technologies not onlyin Europe but also elsewhere in the world. In addition,technology has also facilitated the rearing of a widerrange of sh species, using high performance feeds, in

innovative farming facilities. Such advances have ledto improved productivity and a seven-fold increasein worldwide production over the last 40 years.

Maintains Extraordinary Diversity in its rangeof species grown, its scale and types of operationand the various climatic and environmentalconditions across Europe under which it operates.

Employs Highly Skilled Personnel at each levelof the value chain, from producers to equipmentand feed suppliers, veterinary and health services,

researchers, processors and marketers.

Based on this excellence in science, technologyand industry, aquaculture is now seen as an integralcomponent of Europes Bioeconomy 1 a conceptthat is recognised as being in need of development inresponse to the Grand Societal Challenges of Europe.

1 See http://tinyurl.com/bioeconomy

If aquaculture did not exist we would have to invent it. Commissioner Maria Damanaki

Directorate-General forMaritime Affairs and Fisheries


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Challenges to Progress

However, the European aquaculture industry also

faces a number of challenges to its progress:

Competition in the marketplace: While Europeancapture sheries are restructuring in response tothe need for improved stock management, marketcompetition is rising from imports of all types ofseafood, 2 both from sheries and aquaculture. In 1994,60% of European seafood needs were provided byEuropean sheries and aquaculture, whereas today65% of seafood consumed in Europe is imported.

Access to and competition for space: This is an

overriding challenge to be resolved, both in coastaland in inland areas. While technological solutionscan provide some answers, resolving conictinginterests and issues that affect both land and wateruse requires improved cooperation and consensusamongst stakeholders and policy-makers.

Maintaining health and welfare: For all livestockthis is a constant concern, particularly in the light ofthe potential effects of climate change, and where newmanagement strategies are needed to support growth.

Improving resource use: Raising levels ofcompetitiveness covers a wide range of topics, includingfarm systems technology, husbandry, feeds andnutrition. Constant efforts have to be made to improveeffi ciency in all aspects of aquaculture management.

Aquaculture governance within the CommonFisheries Policy: Aquaculture deploys processesmore similar to agriculture than to capture sheries

yet is administered under the Common FisheriesPolicy (CFP), which has rarely taken such structuraldifferences into account. The current proposals forCommon Fisheries Policy reform 3 have now recognisedthat aquaculture is a strong pillar of the CFP, whichshould lead to more effective governance measures.

This would not only result in lost revenue and employmentin direct and indirect jobs but would also affect the EUsfood security position given that 65% of EU seafood needsare imported. In addition, it would also worsen the EUbalance on protein supply, which is currently 72% of needs.

2 The term seafood includes all edible products from marine and freshwater sources

3 See http://ec.europa.eu/sheries/reform/

Should these and other technicalchallenges not be addressed andovercome, the European aquacultureindustry will fall behind its rivalsin terms of competitiveness in themarketplace.

Fisheries and aquaculture make crucial contributions to the worlds wellbeing

and prosperity. In the last ve decades, world sh food supply has outpaced

global population growth, and today sh constitutes an important source

of nutritious food and animal protein for much of the worlds population. Inaddition, the sector provides livelihoods and income, both directly and indirectly,

for a signicant share of the worlds population. Arni M. Mathiesen Assistant Director-General FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department



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International Dimension

European aquaculture does not operate in isolation but ispart of a global economy and market for seafood products.Major European businesses have global operations whilesmaller entities have realised the benets and opportunities

that their expertise offers through internationalactivities. It is expected that this trend will continue.

Supply and service companies in the value-chainare also world leaders in many areas (e.g. feeds, animalhealth, equipment and technology), providing signicantcontributions to improvement and growth ofglobal aquaculture.

Europe has many world-leading aquaculture researchersand facilities, in universities, research institutions and theprivate sector. New knowledge will be a driving force for

future growth and should create new areas of developmentand revenue. Similar opportunities exist for the trainingsector, both in Europe and internationally. Universitiesand training organisations have excelled in providingscientists, policy-makers, managers and workers. Asnew technologies and innovation move forward,the export of best training practice and vocationaltraining could become a growth activity.

There are many areas where European aquaculture playsa global role and many opportunities will develop inthe future, particularly given the current and forecastrates of global aquaculture development. To assistthis approach, EATiP has established an InternationalDesk to facilitate international cooperation efforts.

Europe has one of the strictest governance systemsfor aquaculture in the world, with sustainability atthe core while guaranteeing food safety, environmentalmanagement and worker safety. Europe sets thebenchmark for sustainable production and it is anticipatedthat global aquaculture governance must improve tomeet the expectations of consumers and society at large.

European producers are keen to seecommon governance rules at the globallevel, to establish a level playing eldand maintain their competitivenesswithin the global market.




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E A T i P A N D I T S V I S I O N F O R E U R O P E A N A Q U A C U L T U R E

a position conrmed by the Europe 2020 4 strategy whichidentied the need for economic growth that was:

SMART based on an economy foundedon knowledge and innovation

SUSTAINABLE promoting a more resource-effi cient,greener and more competitive economy

INCLUSIVE fostering a high employment economywhile delivering social and territorial cohesion

In spite of the challenges posed by the diversity ofan industry rearing such a wide range of animals andplants in so many different environments, more than 50organisations across Europe agreed to create the EuropeanAquaculture Technology and Innovation Platform.

What are EuropeanTechnology Platforms?

In 2003, the European Council called for thecreation of European Technology Platforms 5 tobring together technological know-how, industry,regulators and nancial institutions to develop astrategic agenda for leading technologies.

European Technology Platforms (ETPs), offi ciallyrecognised by the European Commission, are industry-ledstakeholder forums, charged with dening research

priorities, that provide a framework to dene these anddevelop action plans on a number of technologicalareas where achieving EU growth, competitivenessand sustainability requires major research andtechnological advances in the medium to long term.

To achieve their goals, ETPs:

DEFINE a Vision containing targeted goals

for what their sector will be contributing andhow it will be working in the future.

ALLOWindustry to open dialogue between relevantstakeholders so as to dene research and developmentpriorities for their sector in an open and transparent way.

ACHIEVE their goals by identifying technologicalchallenges to Europes future competitiveness intheir industrial sector. These are used to developa strategic research agenda that addresses thesechallenges. From this agenda, a practical actionplan is developed to ensure that any new researchleads to real innovation in industry, assisted by

effective technology transfer mechanisms, thedissemination of information and skill development.

ENSURE that research carried out on their sector has ahigh degree of industrial relevance throughout the entireeconomic value chain. They are also active in mobilisingpublic authorities at national and regional levels toassist development in the most effective way possible.

EATiP and its Vision for European Aquaculture

4 See http://ec.europa.eu/europe2020/

5 See http://tinyurl.com/627l6t

Innovation was recognised as a keydimension and focus of EATiP,

EATiP is the European Technology Platform for Aquaculture that began in 2007 when stakeholders in the Europeanaquaculture industry met to identify gaps and needs in knowledge, technology, skills and policy within their sector.

European Technology Platforms areset to play a key role in supportingEuropean industrial competitivenessand, ultimately, in improvingsignicantly the daily lives of theEuropean citizen in many areas.

Commissioner Potonik DG Research


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In 2030, European aquaculture will be sustainable and globally competitive a dynamicactivity in coastal and inland economies, not only supplying signicant amounts of highquality and nutritious food to the consumer but also diversifying to provide a range of newproducts and integrated services.

Aquaculture production will grow and diversify in Europe, following consumer and marketdemands, adapting to climatic and geographic circumstances, in harmony with natureand society.

This will be achieved by enhancing husbandry, welfare, technology and knowledgemanagement while improving the understanding of the factors inuencing development, bethese technical, commercial or social, so as to assure the sustainability of European aquacultureand its global role in technological leadership.

The vision of the European aquaculture industry is, by the year 2030, to provide annually4.5 million tons of sustainable food products, worth 14 billion, and supporting more than150,000 direct jobs.

The Vision

The Vision for European

Aquaculture

Our Vision and the Goals of the EATiP Strategic andInnovation Agenda are summarised in this document.Moreover, they are based upon the contributionsof over 400 experts from industry and otherstakeholders, who have identied where aquaculturecan contribute to European development prioritiesand where knowledge gaps need to be overcometo allow successful innovation and development.

They are not only in line with the priorities of Europe2020, but also respond to the Key Challenges identied

in the European Councils review of the SustainableDevelopment Strategy 6 and the Lund Declaration. 7

EATiP has 3 core priorities: ESTABLISH a stronger relationship between

the aquaculture industry and the consumer

ASSURE a sustainable aquaculture sector

CONSOLIDATE the role and importanceof aquaculture in society

These priorities are addressed within eight different Thematic Areas, each of which is identiablewithin the European aquaculture value chain, and

for which EATiP has created expert groups:

1. Product Quality, Consumer Safety and Health

2. Technology and Systems

3. Managing the Biological Life Cycle

4. Sustainable Feed Production

5. Integration with the Environment

6. Knowledge Management

7. Aquatic Animal Health and Welfare

8. Socio-economics, Management & Governance

Each Thematic Area developed its own targets, goals andresearch requirements, as well as an action plan to ensurethat their targets are met. These are summarised in thisdocument but can be viewed in full on www.eatip.eu

This work has led to the denition and aspirationsof the Vision for European Aquaculture in 2030and the Strategic Research and Innovation Agendathat are described in the following sections.

6 See http://tinyurl.com/manr7a

7 See http://tinyurl.com/ycp2b3t


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Factors for Success

To work on the Thematic Areas has led to agreement on a

range of important factors that need to be addressed so asto achieve the Vision for European Aquaculture in 2030:

Dynamic Research and Innovation

Resolving applied and fundamental researchchallenges, relating to sectorial and societalneeds and combined with improved accessby scientists to state of the art facilities

Applying multi-disciplinary approaches

Ensuring the effective management and transferof both knowledge and technology.

Developing curricula and competence-buildingrelative to the needs of the aquaculture value chain

Building specialised and effi cient networksto ensure successful technology transferand innovation implementation

Responsible Aquaculture Value-Chain

Supplying the consumer not only with the

products required, but also with the associatedinformation assuring them that the producthas been produced sustainably.

Producing high quality, safe and nutritiousfood, ethically and effi ciently

Incorporating innovative technology andmanagement systems, producing morefrom less and with minimal waste

Providing a wide range of career opportunitieswithin a safe, stable working environment

Accountable to Society

Participating in multi-disciplinary andmulti-stakeholder governance, assuring therequirements of transparency and responsibility

Communicating with society on all aspectsof the aquaculture value chain

Assuring the recognised stewardship of

natural resources for a sustainable activity


Aquaculture & the Consumer

Assuring a Sustainable Industry

Aquaculture in Society Technology &

Systems

Managing theBiological Life

Cycle

Aquatic AnimalHealth & Welfare

SustainableFeed Production

Integration withthe Enviroment

KnowledgeManagement

Socio-Economics,Management &

Governance

Product Quality,Consumer

Safety & Health

EATiPs Core Priorities


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These factors highlight the need for the bestcoordination across the Thematic Areas and theintegration of this approach at National and Europeanlevels, underlining the following requirements.

1. Research and innovation efforts on aquaculturemust be increased, focused and supported

2. The capacity for progress must be strengthenedwithin the aquaculture value chain includingthe legislative framework, RTDi and education,nancing and market conditions

3. Networks must be built and consolidated, withinand between the research and industrial sectors, andincluding civil society and governmental representation

Achieving these levels of coordinationrequires extensive public/privatecooperation, stimulating the creation ofan innovation-friendly environment forall players involved.


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U N L O C K I N G T H E P O T E N T I A L

Provide the European consumer with desirableproducts of the highest quality at an affordable price

Assure that aquacultures impact onthe environment is minimal

Respect the conditions for optimallivestock health and welfare

Develop and integrate new technologieswithin the entire value chain

Improve economic performance ateach level of the value chain

Guarantee the training and skill development of thoseworking in the sector and attract talented professionals

Provide clear contributions and bene ts to society

These seven principles have been incorporated into thework of EATiPs Thematic Areas, each of which has identiedGoals and Action Plans to unlock the future potential of

European aquaculture and promote sustainable growth.

Before we examine the proposals of the ThematicAreas, let us examine European aquaculture in detail,following the four main sectors in which it is active (i.e.Mediterranean, Coldwater, Shellsh and Freshwater)to assess the potential of each for future growth.

Scenarios for EuropeanAquacultureEach sector was the subject of a consultative workshop,where expert stakeholders worked on characterisation,challenges and opportunities. This approach includedin-depth reviews of production and marketing patterns,legislative inuences, advantages, strengths and challenges.Each workshop considered growth potential and analysedlimiting factors so that a realistic vision and associatedprojections could be developed. The EATiP ThematicAreas took the conclusions and recommendations so

as to develop the outline 2030 scenarios that follow. 8

The 2030 scenarios demonstrate the differences in viewson potential growth in the different sectors, whether thisbe for technology, markets, legislation, knowledge and/orother factors that might inuence development. Overall,several common views can be summarised as follows:

The main species produced in each sector will continueto dominate production, while diversication willcontribute to competitiveness in different ways

Integrated multitrophic aquaculture(IMTA), diversication in species andactivity are all seen as opportunities

Signi cant improvements in feed compositionand conversion, combined with newmanagement and operational technologies,will contribute to higher productivity

Improved husbandry will target such characteristicsas robustness, disease resistance and overall

product quality, resulting in higher levels ofperformance and consumer acceptance

The achievement and recognition ofenvironmental sustainability, where new toolsfor governance are recommended, will beshared throughout European aquaculture

Unlocking the Potential

The combined effect of thesescenarios would result in Europeanaquaculture achieving averageannual growth of 3.1% - providing4.5 million tons of sustainable foodproducts, worth 14 billion, andmore than 150,000 direct jobs bythe year 2030.

EATiP has adopted seven baseline principles to guide its work and suggests that,in order to ourish, the European aquaculture industry should:

8 the glossary (p. 41) provides explanations for acronyms


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S T R A T E G I C G O A L S & P L A N S F O R A C T I O N

From Planning to Delivery

Early in 2012, the EATiP Board and Operating Council

identied major risks that would affect achievement ofthe Vision. Based on this exercise, EATiP has developeda Risk Management Plan to assist responses to the risksassociated with the sectors development and includesdetails on the risk tolerance levels and necessary actionsor reactions (acceptance, avoidance or transfer of risksfaced by the sector/sub-sectors). This approach toRisk Management is par t of EATiPs strategic planningeffort and incorporates the following activities:

Continuously identifying risks

- Assessing their impact, likelihood and threat level

Prioritising risks

- Implementing strategies for response

Where Risks are categorised as being:

Strategic

Operational

Hazardous

Key characteristics of risks:

Risks can be identi ed as adverse consequencesof events or changed conditions.

Their occurrence is uncertain and mayhave different extents of likelihood.

EATiPs Risk ManagementPolicy Statement:

To provide a clear andstrong basis for informeddecision-making at all levelsof the platform.

For the sector to be able to apply the factors identied forsuccess, a Risk Management exercise was made for each ofthe four identied aquaculture sectors Mediterranean /

Coldwater / Shellsh / Freshwater so as to identify the potential challenges, perceived orreal, that could affect the sustainable growth desired.

The main elements and the forecasteffects identied are listed below.

STRATEGIC RISKS

Competition: From aquaculture productionin other regions/countries - oversupplyto markets, lower protability, lack of rawmaterials, boom and bust conditions

European and National Policies: Inadequateregulations (raw materials, drugs, additives, feedingredients), new environment/planning policieslimiting production growth and/or investments

Public Perception and Consumer Concerns: Negative perceptions of aquaculture productswith particular regard to quality, safety,environmental impact and sustainability

Financial/Economic Risk: Global and Europeanmacro-economics inadequate nancing capacities,lack of investors in production/services,lack of investment in RTDi

OPERATIONAL RISKS

Sectoral competence and skills: Lack ofskilled personnel and training opportunities

Knowledge Management: Ineffective knowledgetransfer pathways from research to industry/policymakers

Lack of funding/research required to implementSRIA and Plans for Action: Insuffi cient investments

in programmes and personnel to achieve SRIA


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T H E S T R A T E G I C R E S E A R C H A N D I N N O V A T I O N A G E N D A

Product Quality, ConsumerSafety and Health

Key Target:

To build a sustainable, cost-effective competitiveadvantage through the production of high quality, healthy,nutritious and safe seafood, accompanied by scienticdata documenting these facts and communicating theseeffectively to the relevant interests groups and consumers.

Background:

Public awareness of a healthy diet and a more sophisticatedunderstanding of nutritional science will continue toincrease. So too will the understanding of the rolethat aquaculture products have to play in a balanceddiet, and the broader European health agenda. Asaquaculture products become more rmly established inthe consciousness of the population, so issues relating toproduct quality and consumer safety will continue to bea priority, providing assurance in the safety and value ofgreater consumer consumption. The further developmentof functional aquaculture food, promoting health benets, isan underlying consideration. Four key goals havebeen identied.

The Strategic Research and Innovation AgendaTargets, Goals and sub-goals by Thematic Area


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GOAL 1: Maximise the health benetsof aquaculture products

Identify relevant bioactive compoundspresent in aquaculture products

Better understand the mechanisms andsynergies underlying the health benets ofbioactive components from aquacultureproducts in the promotion of human health

Investigate the speci c effects of aquaculture products insub-groups of the population with specic dietary needs

Explore the differences in terms of healthbenet between species and productionmethods including feed composition

GOAL 2: Ensure the continuingsafety of aquaculture products

Identify, manage and eliminate existing and potentialphysical, chemical and biological new hazards andemerging risks; including virus, bacteria, toxins, persistentorganic pollutants (POPs) and other toxic substances

Make available to producers of aquacultureproducts user-friendly methods to monitorand control the safety of the production,targeting known and emerging hazards

Ensure the manufacture of authentic aquacultureproducts, regarding the species, quality, processing, useof additives, production method and geographic origin

Better understand the mechanisms and synergiesunderlying the health risks of undesirablecompounds potentially present in aquacultureproducts for risk management purposes

GOAL 3: Deliver high quality Europeanaquaculture products - fully meeting consumerexpectations including appearance, taste,texture, nutrition and provenance claims

De ne and standardise quality parametersof aquaculture products

Develop and validate practical tools and fast methodsfor processors to measure aquaculture productquality, including physical/chemical parameterssuch as texture, colour, fat content and to mimicorganoleptic parameters such as juiciness

Develop and/or implement new technologies

and materials in the seafood processingindustry which enhance quality, includingthat of products to be sold alive

De ne and describe the parameters that can bemanipulated to create differentiated products targetedat particular markets and consumer groups

Develop and establish the foundations for thesuccessful commercial implementation of a robustproduct certication and a consumer-friendlylabelling system for European aquaculture

products, based on provenance and quality.GOAL 4: Understand the dynamicsof European seafood markets

Issue clear recommendations andguidelines for informed policy making onrecommended consumption levels

Identify and close commercially harmful gapsin consumers perception about aquacultureproducts and the current scientic knowledge

Understand the dynamics of European seafood trade

...aquaculture provides huge opportunities and raises considerablechallenges, particularly in relation to environmental sustainability ofproduction as well as to the quality and safety of the products. 9 EU Aquaculture Strategy 2009

9 http://tinyurl.com/EUaqsrtategy-2009


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Technology and Systems(T&S)

Key Target:

To advance aquaculture industry technologies and

systems so that Europe can become an environmentallyand economically sustainable net supplier of seafood,characterised by a safe and attractive working environment.

Background:

As aquaculture moves from being a new farming activityto an evolving modern food industry, it is crucial thattechnology and systems are used to maximum advantageto fully exploit the potential of the European aquacultureindustry. Contributions to automation, monitoring and

analysis are key to increasing operational effi ciency.Maximising advances in processing technology, withspecic regard to product storage and shelf life, willcomplement the considerations on product quality.Four key goals have been identied in this eld.

GOAL 1: Ensure an environmentallysustainable industry by the application of newknowledge and technology innovations

Development of technology preventing escapesof sh and eggs from production systems.

Development of renewable energy sourcesfor aquaculture production facilities.

To effectively manage nutrients cycling in productionsystems in order to increase its retention in aquacultureproducts (polyculture, IMTA, integrated aquaculture).

Reduce waste release from aquaculture production.

Develop and upgrade existing technologies formore effi cient use of fresh water resources

Develop T&S for the mass production of aquaticorganisms (e.g. plankton, seaweed) for industrial use



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GOAL 2: Meet the demand for aquacultureproducts in Europe by the development of effi cienttechnologies to support continued growth

Develop technology and systems forbest aquaculture site selection

Develop farming equipment and operationalprocedures for off-shore sites

Maximise effi ciency of Recirculation Aquaculture Systems(RAS) and reduce accumulation of persistent compounds

Develop marine and freshwater integrated aquaculturesystems (e.g. polyculture, IMTA) for production ofpresent and new species and environmental services

Develop production systems for new aquacultureproducts (e.g. new species, premium class and/ or certied products) for changing markets

Reduce the incidence of diseases by developing T&S

Develop T&S for improved utilisation of existing sites

Develop technology to support production ofnew sh feeds (formulated, live feeds etc.)

GOAL 3: Ensure the protability of theaquaculture industry by developing improvedmanagement systems and technology

To improve technology for transfer, handlingand slaughtering of aquaculture productswith respect to welfare and ethics

Develop automation for all stages of production(hatcheries, on growing, processing) forpresent and future production systems

Improve or develop novel systems to controlbiofouling of aquaculture equipment

Develop technologies for improved quality of seedfor all present and future production systems

Develop technologies for completeutilisation of farmed products

GOAL 4: Ensure technology for ethical and healthyproduction of high quality aquatic products

Integrate technology management and biology toimprove welfare and prevent disease outbreaks

Improve technology for transfer, handlingand slaughtering of aquaculture livestock

with respect to welfare and ethics

Develop standardised detection and quanti cationmethods for pathogens affecting humans

Develop technology and proceduresfor monitoring welfare status of aquaticanimals during all production stages

Develop technology to prevent contamination ofshellsh from external sources of human pathogens


Dont worry about what anybody else is going to do... The best way to predict the future is to invent it. Alan Kay


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Managing theBiological LifecycleKey Target:

European aquaculture in 2030 will produce larger volumesand contribute to a decrease of imports through a signicant

improvement of its competitiveness. It will also focus on beinga commercial stakeholder in aquaculture worldwide. For thebiological inputs, this competitiveness will be obtained from: product specicity, targeted production environments, ahigh level of professionalism & skills and clear political &societal support.

Background:

Attaining competitiveness and effi ciency within theEuropean aquaculture value chain will be essential ifthe sector is to remain at the forefront of an increasingly

competitive global aquaculture industry, where the EUis arguably already at a disadvantage. Further advancesin aquatic species husbandry and the optimisation ofbiotechnology will assist in the delivery of four core goals.

GOAL 1: Establish predictability and improveoutput and cost control at every production stageof the lifecycle

Develop indicators and tools to estimate/ measure predictability and establishingthe current variation level in farms

Improve animal performance at all stages,including egg and larval quality and its effectson performance during grow-out

Improve sanitary control by better understandingthe microbial environment (biotic & abiotic)

Ameliorate technological performance (protocolsstandardisation / amended technology)

Support and promote a competent, highlyskilled workforce throughout the value chain



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GOAL 2: Genetic improvement of productive,health and animal welfare traits

Selective breeding to target important traits e.g.adaptation to alternative feed sources, diseaseresistance, feed effi ciency, llet yield, esh quality,nutritional prole and human health factors

Develop effi cient tools (genetic, molecular, genomics)or adapt existing tools from other sectors, to introducedisease resistance in breeding programmes and obtainrobust animals, resistant to disease,stress, changing environment

Identify and quantify genetic correlations between

productive, disease resistance and welfare traits that willenforce synergies between traits and avoid unwantedeffects of selective breeding for productivity traits

Identi cation of the elds for transnational -omicresearch with clear potential benet for industry (e.g.metabolomic indices of juvenile quality and developstrategies to utilise these in breeding programmes)

Increase industry and policymakers awarenessand competence about potential gains andimplementation of selective breeding programmes

GOAL 3: Improve broodstockmanagement methods and control ofsex and reproduction in captivity

Identify reproduction-related problems andknowledge gaps for each major aquaculturespecies in Europe ( n sh and molluscs)

Evaluate the impact of sexual maturation on growth,welfare and potential risk of disease susceptibility

Understand the role of genetic, physiological, nutritional,behavioural and environmental factors on thespawning of gametes of high quality and the timing ofspawning to (i) facilitate year-round supply (for massspawning) or (ii) to reproduce selected broodstock(for implementation of breeding programmes)

Control puberty by understanding the role of geneticand physiological factors, including the effects ofenvironment, husbandry practices and nutrition

Cryopreserve for biosecurity, predictability,distribution and bio-banking includingreference libraries of natural populations

Understand the basis of sex determination andsex differentiation (genetic, environmental andphysiological) to enable sex-ratio control measures

Develop new sterilisation methods as an alternativeto triploidy, and, when not possible, methods toallow production of triploids on an industrial scale forspecies usually propagated from mass spawning (suchas cod, sea bass and sea bream). Acquire knowledgeon impact/behaviour of sterile animals in the wild.

Develop tools for (i) the identi cation of wildsignature for shellsh production or restockingpurposes, and (ii) to constitute and conservegenetic variability similar to wild populations

Improve the knowledge of the technical personnel ofaquaculture operations on the available methods tocontrol and enhance reproduction in cultured species

GOAL 4: Manage the lifecycle of carefully selectednew species that have high economic importance

Produce desktop study of new candidates foraquaculture, based on objective criteria, for example:

- indicators issued from market studies

- biological specicity (e.g. reproduction in a differentseason than currently cultured shes, better growth insome specic environmental conditions, lower trophiclevel, dependence on exclusively plant feeds etc.)

- open new markets

- open new aquaculture sectors forproduction (e.g. offshore for tuna)

- allow polyculture and/or integrated(multi-trophic) aquaculture or RAS

Develop innovative (e.g. generic) tools to domesticatemore easily new species beneting from theexpertise acquired from already mastered species

Optimise the management of natural stocks (e.g.Best Gardening Practice) in particular to develop/ restore production of European species



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Sustainable FeedProduction

Key Target:

Sustainable sh feeds, [whose manufacture will be] basedon solid scientic knowledge and reliable raw materials,will contribute to making aquaculture one of the mosteffi cient producers of high value food for humans, andone that respects environment and sh welfare.

Background:Fish feeds continue, at the present time, to provide one ofthe most contentious issues in discussions surroundingaquaculture. It is essential, if the sector is to developfurther and for society to fully embrace the solutionsthat aquaculture can offer, that science-based objectivemethodologies are applied to the sustainable feed debate.Nonetheless, the basic effi ciency of nutrient conversion andassimilation gives the opportunity for aquaculture to be themost effi cient provider of high quality, nutritious food.

Five key goals have been identied for this area.

GOAL 1: Base formulation of Future FishFeeds on solid knowledge of sh nutritionaland feeding requirements, and expand thenumber of well characterised and sustainableraw materials which can be used.

Improve knowledge on nutritionalrequirements of sh commonly farmed inEurope and for promising new species

Characterise the nutritional value of alternativeraw materials, particularly for new promising orunderutilised sustainable marine or terrestrialsources, to increase exibility in formulating highlynutritious feeds, of low environmental impact andappropriate for different aquaculture systems

Clarify the potential of commonly usedand novel micro-ingredients to optimiseeffi ciency of diet utilisation by sh



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Evaluate the effects of using alternative feed ingredientsto the content of key bioactive compounds ofaquaculture products and understand how to optimise

their nutritional value in order to tailor aquacultureproducts for maximising the consumer health benets

Adapt feeding procedures to ensure optimal feedutilisation and minimise environmental impact

Provide necessary information to support/ change regulatory measures

GOAL 2: Advanced novel feed technologies toproduce cost effective feed with improved quality

Develop novel technology and improved

processing routes for cost effective andsustainable sh feed production

Novel and improved larval feed technology for bettersurvival, larval growth performance and quality

Improved understanding of the interactions betweeningredient properties and processing conditionsaffecting physical feed quality and utilisation of nutrients

GOAL 3: Understand and minimise undesirableeffects of alternative diets on sh health and welfare

Response of alimentary systems in farmed sh toalternative feeds and development of methodsand markers for assessing dietary effects

Roles of nutrition, diet and feed additiveson gastrointestinal and systemic immunesystem and disease susceptibility

Evaluation of the relation of dietary changesto the aetiology of production diseases

Evaluation of diet involvement in stress, behavioural andfeeding responses of sh and methods for remediatingpossible adverse effects and optimising performance

GOAL 4: Adapt and utilize advanced methods tounderstand and model nutritional responses

In vivo and in vitro models to examinephysiological responses to nutrients

Integrative tools and omic tools

Mathematical modelling of nutritional responsesand possible contaminant accumulation in sh

GOAL 5: Resolve strategic researchproblems in sh nutrition

Develop feeds to i) maximise protein accretion andminimise lipid deposition, ii) achieve optimal productcomposition that will promote human health

Develop selection tools for improving nutrient utilisationand protein/lipid deposition contributing to biologicaleffi ciency of aquaculture species via selective breedingand via choice of broodstock material (species or strains)

Formulate targeted feed and feedingpractices that condition farmed species tonovel feeds, increase adaptability, reducestress, and increase biological effi ciency


Creativity can solve almost any problem. The creative act,the defeat of habit by originality, overcomes everything. George Lois


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Integration with theEnvironmentKey Target:

Aquaculture in 2030 will produce nutritiousfood with less environmental footprints thanany other food production for humans.

Background:

Managing the interactions between aquaculture and the

environment is a complex issue that requires a holisticapproach; this is because European environmentallegislation envisages an ecosystem-based managementof aquaculture but aquaculture is very sensitive toother human activities that may negatively affect thestate of freshwater and coastal waters. In acceptingthe needs of society to exploit natural resources,the ultimate challenge for aquaculture is to keepthe consequences of environmental pressuresat an acceptable level while maintaining the fullintegrity of ecosystem structure and function.

GOAL 1: Establish fundamental scienticknowledge on the assimilation capacity of biogenicwastes from aquaculture to determine acceptableemission rates for benthic and pelagic ecosystems(Biogenic waste assimilation in ecosystems)

Establish a science-based concept for the managementof biogenic waste emission to open waters with relevantindicators for assessing chemical and ecosystemstate as a contribution for the implementationof the Water Framework Directive (WFD)

Determine assimilative capabilities and the environ-mentally-acceptable critical loading rates of biogenicwastes per volume and per area of sea oor, includingthe contribution or ecological services of shellshand macro-algae farmed in aquaculture locations

Establish integrated management tools for wasteemission which consider assimilation capabilities,hydrodynamic energy and presence of sensitivehabitats as a tool for siting, spatial planning andecosystem-based management of aquaculture



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GOAL 2: Establish technology to minimiseemission of biogenic matter from aquacultureand to minimise the potential environmentalinuence of the actual emissions by means ofenvironmental management and integratedmulti-trophic aquaculture (Technologyto minimise biogenic inuence)

Improve feeding technology, feeding management andfeed composition in order to minimise biogenic emissionfrom aquaculture installations per unit sh produced

Learn how optimal siting and the best availabletechnology for environmental managementcan minimise the potential environmentalinuence of emissions per unit sh produced

Explore the potential environmental bene ts of anexpansion of marine aquaculture of sh, shellshand macro-algae to exposed Atlanticand European marginal seas

Explore the potentials of utilising wastes from existingand new European sh farms in exposed waters forcombining fed and extractive aquaculture (IMTA),with a focus on co-farming of sh, macro-algaeand vulnerable non-fed invertebrates

GOAL 3: Understand the fate and cumulativeeffects of synthetic agents used in aquacultureand minimising their impact on the environment(Fate of synthetic agents in ecosystem)

Understand better the mechanisms andrisks for harmful ecosystem interactions ofpharmaceuticals and chemical antifouling agents

Study the cumulative effects and fate of pharmaceuticals,chemical antifouling agents, and new feed ingredientsthat are introduced and their ecosystem interactionin the near site and far-eld environments

Improve access to eld data with the possibility ofbuilding a transparent surveillance and reportingnetwork on sh infections and volumes andclasses of pharmaceuticals used by sh farms toregulatory agencies in order to minimise theiruse and their impact on the environment

GOAL 4: Establish more fundamental knowledgeto understand the interactions betweenfarmed and wild stocks, including wildlife(Interactions of farmed and wild stocks)

Improve knowledge of the potential positiveand negative aquaculture interactions withsheries and ecosystems, including wildlife, predators and exotic species

Enhance knowledge and understanding of the geneticinteractions between wild and farmed stocks,

Understand better disease and parasite interactionsbetween farmed and wild organisms

GOAL 5: Develop or adapt tools andmeasures in support of appropriateenvironmental governance for aquaculture(Tools for environmental governance)

Develop new planning tools and adapt existingtools used for site selection, based on ecosystemassimilative capacity and spatial planningfor further aquaculture development

Develop new management tools and adaptexisting tools and measures used for environmental

monitoring, production optimisation andminimising aquaculture inuence

Harmonise environmental regulationsand legislation, implementing commonregulations between European countries

Develop techniques and procedures forquantication of environmental and ecologicalservices provided by aquaculture farms andencourage voluntary farmer-based contributionsto environmental management



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Knowledge ManagementKey Target:

In 2030, the European aquaculture industry will be widelyregarded as an environmental, economic and socially

sustainable activity. This respect will be grounded in evidencebased scientic knowledge, industrial strength and consumercondence. Knowledge and innovation will be integral to thecompetitive advantages of the European aquaculture industry.

Background:

European scientists will continue to be major contributorsto the international scientic community, providingrelevant input to all stages of the aquaculture valuechain. The aquaculture sector will be attractive to a widerange of highly educated people, with positive growth

and employment opportunities. The industry will becharacterised by its ability to fast-track progress fromknowledge development and intellectual protectionthrough to innovation, industrial application and productdevelopment. European aquaculture will adopt cuttingedge knowledge management practices to supportstate-of-the art technological development. This will be thekey factor that allows the aquaculture industry to meet theimminent market demand for sh & shellsh production,due to limited natural resources coupled with a growingworld population. This Target and its supporting objectives

will be met by achieving the following goals and sub-goals.

GOAL 1: Manage knowledge effi ciently andeffectively within the European Aquaculture sector

Create knowledge that is focused on outcomesand impacts on industry and ensure thatresearch effort is not duplicated

Manage and transfer knowledge including thededicated transfer to identied users and translationof research results for stakeholder uptake

Encourage the protection of legal rights, managementof intellectual property and adherence to ethicalstandards in a manner that ensures open innovationand the development of a sustainable sector

Promote sustainable aquaculture practices throughthe transfer and application of knowledge and

technology, including the challenges of food production,environmental protection, product safety andeconomic viability

GOAL 2: Ensure the availability and effi cientuse of aquaculture research infrastructuresacross all boundaries to benet the industry

Ensure international and inter-regionalcooperation to develop research infrastructuresthat can meet emerging needs

Increase the awareness of existing research

infrastructures (functionalities, scale, servicesand access) for all stakeholders



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Aquatic Animal Health

and WelfareKey Target:

By 2030, further improvement in aquatic animal healthand welfare in European aquaculture will produce highquality, robust animals - resulting in increased productivitythat builds on environmental and welfare standards.

Background:

The extremely high standards of sh health and welfareobserved in European aquaculture are a credit to thedifferent production sectors and indicative of theinvestment made in sh health and welfare researchand sectoral education. This competitive advantage canbe maintained in sh health and welfare knowledge,improving productivity and the output from the entireproduction cycle, by addressing four key goals.

GOAL 1: Improve sh health and welfareby increasing the understanding of hostpathogen interactions and to have access toeffective vaccines and immunomodulators

Improve the understanding of hostpathogen interactions

Development of new vaccines & improvement ofexisting vaccines and diagnostic tests, includingtheir application to all stages of nsh life cycles.

Research is required on mode of actionand use of immunomodulators

GOAL 2: Apply epidemiological principlesto minimise the threat of existing,emerging and exotic diseases

Improve understanding of transmissionmechanisms of pathogens at all levels fromfarm, through country, to Europe wide



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Understand the industry structure (network) and itsvulnerabilities to endemic and epidemic diseases

Development of framework (model) forevaluating the relative importance of healthand welfare threats, including bio-economicmodelling, risk assessment and biosecurity.

Improve strategic data availabilitythrough standardisation

Turn understanding into strategies throughindustry, government and academicparticipation in research and consultation

GOAL 3: Use and develop best practice to optimise

effi cacy of treatments and prevention methods Minimise treatment when possible by using best practice

Investigate alternative remedies and methodssuch as probiotics and biological control

Improve and streamline the medicineand vaccine licensing system

Improve application of management measureswith emphasis on alternative control measures

Develop methods for effective delivery of treatments in

novel systems e.g. large off-shore cages, well boats etc.

GOAL 4: Measure welfare/stress andunderstand its consequences if compromisedin order to incorporate welfare as corecomponent of production management

Develop and improve existing welfare/stress indices

Understand and quantify short and long termconsequences of compromised welfare, suchas reduced growth, reduced feed effi ciency,health, treatment effects, product quality

Incorporate welfare/low stress management as amajor factor in production and legislation decisionsand in on-going risk, cost and gap analysis



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Socio-economics,Management &GovernanceKey Target:

Create the economic, social, management, political andgovernance framework conditions that enable innovativedevelopment of sustainable aquaculture and future food andnutrition security, viable companies and livelihoods withinEuropes coastlines and freshwater aquatic resources.

Background:

European aquaculture operates within a commercialglobally-inuenced market. As world economic trendsmove from state intervention, subsidies and centralisedplanning towards deregulated free trade, it is vital thataquaculture is not disadvantaged through legislation,regulation or arbitrary intervention and interference. Assuch, the EATiP will aim to resolve the following key goalsand sub-goals for the European aquaculture sector:

GOAL 1: Promote effective governance- establishing a level playing eld foraquaculture within and outside Europe

Standardise decision-making processes onaquaculture activities by employing goodgovernance principles (e.g. cohesiveness, openness,participation, effectiveness and accountability)

Ensure that policies consider potential impactsof management measures on aquaculturefrom vertical (local, national, regional andinternational) and horizontal (between sectorse.g. aquaculture and sheries) perspectives

Simplify legislation and reduce time fromapplication to award of operating licence

Ensure food produced with ingredients and processesoutside Europe complies with EC standards

Link social and economic dimensions ofaquaculture with environmental considerationsin a fair, legitimate and transparent manner



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Aquaculture is an important economic activity incertain coastal and continental areas of the EU. EU Aquaculture Strategy 2009

Develop a European database to better inform theaquaculture industry of drivers that underpin local,national, regional and international markets

Provide a transparent and user-friendly decisionsupport system for effective aquaculture governancethat weighs potential benets and costs of differentmanagement measures to all interested parties

GOAL 2: Establish an enabling environmentfor innovation and growth to allowaquaculture to realise its full potential

Identify standard methods to measure trade-offsbetween risk and return on aquacultureprojects in regulatory evaluations

Identify incentives to promote investment in aquacultureand ensure longevity of sustainable production

Establish policies that recognise property rights ofaquaculture enterprises and offer methods on howto balance economic, social and environmentalimpacts of aquaculture on a specic area

Facilitate open and inclusive dialogue in decision-makingabout growth of all aquaculture related activities

Ensure communication on research and

development between industry, scientists and policymakers is facilitated through joint developmentof effective communication strategies

GOAL 3: Understand better the social and economicdimensions of aquaculture at different scales

Endorse and develop aquaculture as an attractive andviable livelihood for achieving income generationand food security for all interested communities,including coastal and inland rural areas

Understand and promote social and economic bene tsassociated with aquaculture through evidence-basedscientic information, communicated using differentmedia formats appropriate for different target audiences

Improve knowledge on and understand better whatparameters explain social and economic impacts

of aquaculture, including spatio-temporal trends Increase understanding of methods and tools to

apply social and economic data to decision-making

Provide a transparent decision support system forlinking relationships between social and economicfactors with environmental considerations to informwhat type of governance structure is needed and bestsupports sustainable development of the sector



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Initial Priority Actions

The EATiP Operating Council, after working with coregroups of thematic experts, has generated its rst listof potential actions, which also encompasses the ideasand proposals of more than 200 multi-stakeholder

contributors and focuses on how the overall Vision and

targets set for 2030 will be achieved effectively.

Actions are not limited to research and innovation but includeany activity needed to achieve the goals and sub-goalsidentied, including; policy requirements, knowledgetransfer, networking, training and sectorial management.

The Plan of Action has been dened so asto capture key information on the specicactions identied to date, including;

Description

Type - RTDi, Knowledge Transfer, Policy, Other Expected Results

Timeline (Short, Medium, Long)

Estimated funding requirement

The list of actions is neither exclusive nor prescriptivebut more a starting point for discussion on what needsto be done. In some cases, several options have beenproposed to achieve a specic sub-goal where expertshave suggested different activities as a response (e.g.a genomics approach to research vs. a eld study).

By listing the suggested approaches alongside estimatedcosts and timelines, it is possible to assess each idea from twoperspectives; a) probability of success and b) cost/benet. Thisapproach will contribute to improved recommendations onfuture investments in responding to the actions identied.

A Live Document

As EATiPs SRIA moves towards implementation,the Plan of Action will be a live document on theEATiP website - allowing any stakeholder to:

provide ideas and suggest alternative or missing actions

provide their opinions on whichactions should be prioritised

Furthermore, initiatives or projects that are alreadyunderway (national, European, global) will be included effectively mapping the efforts made to achieve theSRIA, allowing EATiP to ensure the monitoring of progresstowards the Vision and eliminating effort duplication.

By visibly linking the progress and results of the Plan

of Action to achievement of the SRIA, a new strategicframework for optimising nancial support, from publicand private sources, to the sustainable developmentof European Aquaculture will be provided.

The Plan of Action

Mobilising Actors and ResourcesEach of the EATiP expert groups has identied key targets for their respective thematic area. In total, this has createdan interrelated set of 39 key goals and 145 sub-goals. To achieve these ambitions, the next stage is to mobilisethe relevant actors and resources towards the actions that will achieve these goals and realise the Vision.

Such mobilisation requires a coordinated effort, maximising the expertise and competence of a wide range ofstakeholders across the entire aquaculture value chain - from suppliers through production and processing to retail,as well as the research community, training providers and support services. In parallel, nancing will need to beaccessed, both for investments (private and public - at European, regional and national levels) as well as funding forRTDi activities. New networking needs, communication channels and management challenges have been identiedthat accompany the material requirements, including access to sites and technology, required by the Vision.

Where EuropeanAquaculture will be

A comprehensive agenda Key goals and objectives Risk Management

Action Plan Detailed RTDi needs Timelines, budgets andnancing options

Vision 2030

StrategicResearch &Innovation

Actions &Delivery

T H E P L A N O F A C T I O N


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As elaborated in the Goals of the Thematic Areas,the following targets have been identied:

Improve competitiveness through productdevelopment following customer needs,targeted production environments and a high

level of professionalism and skill evolution

Use knowledge and innovation to buildcost-effective competitive advantages

Create the economic, social, management,political and governance framework conditionsthat will enable the innovative growth anddevelopment of a sustainable aquaculture sector

Produce and provide high quality, healthy,nutritious and safe sh and shellsh productsthat meet consumer demand

Adopt cutting-edge knowledge management practicesto support state-of-the-art technological development

Achieve targeted production levels withless environmental footprints that any othertype of food production for humans

Use sustainable sh feeds that will make aquacultureone of the most effi cient producers of safe,high-protein and nutritious food products

Advance aquaculture industry technology and systemsthat are environmentally and economically sustainable

Improve health and welfare so as to rearhigh quality, robust aquatic animals

Provide a safe, attractive, challengingand rewarding work environment

These approaches will conrm Europe as a global leaderin the commercial, research and service sectors that makethe aquaculture value-chain. This will also create newopportunities in the international dimension for globalaquaculture development, where the technology andservices created will reinforce Europes international position.

To achieve these targets, there is a clear need to adopta more holistic but targeted approach to the sectorsdevelopment, given the breadth, depth and range ofaquaculture in both the EU and the EEA. The proposedreform of the Common Fisheries Policy, in combinationwith the revised Strategy for Sustainable Developmentof European Aquaculture, 10 contributes to this. Supportfrom the RTDi actions foreseen in Horizon 2020 11 and therecognised position of aquaculture within the EuropeanBioeconomy are also important considerations.

The Way Forward

Aquaculture offers Europe great opportunities as a commercial activity, providing valued employment andrevenue. It also offers Europe the chance to further enhance its reputation as a provider of high quality,sustainably-raised sh and shellsh products for European consumers or export markets. Given the currentchallenges in sheries stock management and the rising level of seafood imports, European Aquaculture showshigh potential for growth and is essential for Europes strategies for food supply, security and safety.

10 See http://tinyurl.com/aqstrategy

11 See http://ec.europa.eu/research/horizon2020/

T H E W A Y F O R W A R D


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T H E W A Y F O R W A R D

While the work of the Thematic Areas has identieda number of common concerns that technology andinnovation can address in support of the aquaculture

industry, they also con rm that to reach the EATiP vision,the following considerations are paramount:

A Responsible Aquaculture Value-Chainthat assures the stewardship for providinghigh quality, safe and nutritious food

Dynamic European Research and Innovation that, while achieving the requisite research, providesthe base necessary for knowledge management andcompetence-building for aquaculture in the future

Accountability to Society through participationin transparent governance and assuringcommunication on its activities and responsibilities

These factors highlight the need for the bestcoordination across the Thematic Areas identiedand the integration of this approach at National andEuropean levels, reinforcing the following requirements:

Research and innovation efforts on aquaculturemust be increased, focused and supported,

Networks must be built and consolidated, withinand between the research and industrial sectors, andinclude civil society and governmental representation,

Strengthened capacity to achieve progress forthe aquaculture value chain including thelegislative framework, RTDi and education,nancing and market conditions.

This provides initial awareness and responses to broadand specic risks that could directly affect operationsor that are of strategic or hazardous origin. Monitoringand surveying this plan will give a clear and strong basisfor informed decision-making at all levels over time.

A comprehensive list of actions, based on the associateddetails of the identied thematic goals, gives a solidbase for not only identifying but also following thetopics relative to RTDi, policy, knowledge transfer andother issues that affect their successful achievement.

This document introduces EATiPs Vision for EuropeanAquaculture in 2030, identifying opportunities andresponses to the challenges that will allow sustainablegrowth and development. Both the SRIA and ActionPlan are live initiatives, which will receive furtherconsultation and inputs for their achievement.

Achieving these coordination needswill require extensive public/privatecooperation in order to create an

innovation-friendly environment forall players involved.

EATiPs initial risk management planhas highlighted issues that couldaffect growth and development

The Plan of Action for implementing

EATiPs SRIA requires themobilisation of a wide rangeof actors and resources.

EATiP applies best governanceprinciples to the achievement ofits goals and actions


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T H E E U R O P E A N A Q U A C U L T U R E T E C H N O L O G Y A N D I N N O V A T I O N P L A T F O R M

Board of DirectorsChairman Gustavo Larrazbal (Grupo Tinamenor SL)

Treasurer Torgeir Edvardsen (SINTEF)

Petter Arnesen (Marine Harvest ASA)

Lara Barazi-Yeroulanos (Kefalonia Fisheries SA)

Arnault Chaperon (FEAP)

Viggo Halseth (Skretting AS)

Trond Severinsen (Akvagroup ASA)

Franois Simard (IUCN)

Patrick Smith

Patrick Sorgeloos (Ghent University)

John Stephanis (Selonda Aquaculture SA)

The Chairman and Board of Directors of EATiP wish tothank the Chairs, Facilitators and Members of its Thematic

Areas, the participants in the consultative workshopsand the personnel of EATiP Member Organisations whosecontributions have formed the Vision, the StrategicResearch and Innovation Agenda and the Plan of Action.

The EATiP will continue to use the Thematic Areas ina dynamic way to allow for scenario planning, projectformulation and funding circumstances, applyingforecasting and futures techniques to address theuncertainties that face the EU aquaculture industry inthe mid to longer term.

SecretariatGeneral Secretary Courtney Hough

Executive Secretary Catherine Pons

Rue de Paris 9B-4020 LiegeBelgium Tel: +32 43 38 29 95Fax: +32 43 37 98 46www.eatip.eu

The EATiP is a non-prot association,registered in Belgium (N 808.986.136)

The EATiP Board, Thematic Area Chairs and Facilitatorshave worked collectively in the development of the VisionDocuments, Strategic Research Agendas and Action Plans.

This document was edited by Courtney Hough,John Joyce, David Murphy & David Bassett.

Design by Design Tacticswww.designtactics.net

Photo credits to FEAP, Marine Harvestand CanStock Photo Inc.

The European Aquaculture Technology andInnovation Platform

The real challenge, therefore, is to turn innovation from abuzzword into a systemic and widely distributed capability.It has to be woven into the everyday fabric of the company just like any other organizational capability, such as quality,or supply chain management, or customer service.

Rowan Gibson


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T H E E A T i P O P E R A T I N G C O U N C I L

Chairs and Facilitators of the Thematic Areas

Chairperson Facilitator(s)

Product Quality & Human Safety and Health

Arne Srvig -replacing Nigel Edwards [Seachill](UK) Iciar Martinez [CSiC](Spain) -replacing Edel Elvevoll [NCFS](Norway)Maria Leonor Nunes [IPIMAR](Portugal)

Technology and systems

Ulrik Ulriksen [OCEA AS](Norway) -replacing Jone Gjerde [AKVA Group](Norway)

Laszlo Varadi [HAKI] (Hungary)

Managing the biological lifecycle

Patrick Lavens [Inve] (Belgium) Beatrice Chatain [IFREMER] (France)

Sustainable feed production

Ole Christensen [Biomar] (Denmark) Maria Alexis [HCMR] (Greece)

Integration with the environment

Fernando Torrent [CULMAREX] (Spain) Yngvar Olsen [NTNU] (Norway)

Knowledge management

Karl Almas [SINTEF Aquaculture] (Norway) David Murphy [AquaTT] (Ireland)

Aquatic animal health and welfare

Hamish Rodger [Vet-Aqua International] (Ireland) -replacing Cato Lyngy [Marine Harvest] (Norway)

Randolph Richards [Institute of Aquaculture] (UK)

Socio-economics, Management & Governance

Rosa Chapela [CETMAR] (Spain) Frank Asche [University of Stavanger] (Norway)Selina Stead [University of Newcastle] UK

The EATiP Operating Council


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L I S T O F M E M B E R S

Commercial companies

Akvagroup ASA, Norway

Aquark, Greece

Aquabiotech Group, Malta

AquaTT, Ireland

BioMar A/S, Denmark

Ferme Marine de Douhet, France

Grupo Tinamenor SL, Spain

Inve Technologies SA, Belgium

Kefalonia Fisheries SA, Greece

Marine Farms ASA, Norway

Marine Harvest AS, Norway

Selonda Group, Greece

Skretting AS (Nutreco Group), Norway

Research Community

Aquaculture Protein Centre, Norway

Azti Tecnalia, Spain

Cetmar, Spain

CSIC, Spain

Ctaqua, Spain

DTU Food, Denmark

HAKI - Research Institute for Fisheries,Aquaculture and Irrigation, Hungary

HCMR - Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Greece

IEO - Spanish Institute of Oceanography, Spain

IFREMER, France

IMARES - Wageningen ur, NetherlandsINRA, France

Institute of Aquaculture (IOA), University of Stirling, UK

IPIMAR - Portuguese Institute of Sea andFisheries Research, Portugal

IRTA, Spain

Marine Institute, Ireland

Noma Marin, Norway

NIFES - National Institute of Nutrition& Seafood Research, Norway

National Veterinary Institute, Norway

NCFS - Norwegian College of Fishery Science, Norway

NTNU - Norwegian University of Scienceand Technology, Norway

POLE AQUIMER, France

SARF -Scottish Aquaculture Research Forum, Scotland UK

SINTEF Fisheries & Aquaculture, Norway

University of Florence, Italy

University of Ghent, Belgium

University of Insubria, ItalyXRAQ, Spain

Representative Organisations

CIPA - Comite Interprofessionnel desProduits de lAquaculture, France

COPA-COGECA - European Agricultural Union - GeneralConfederation of Agricultural Cooperatives, Belgium

FEFAC - European Feed Manufacturers Federation, Belgium

EMPA - European Mollusc Producers Association, France

FEAP - Federation of European AquacultureProducers, France/Belgium

International Organisations

IUCN - International Union for theConservation of Nature, Switzerland

EUROFISH, Denmark

Civil Society Organisations

EAS - European Aquaculture Society, Belgium

EBCD - European Bureau for Conservationand Development, Belgium

Observers

European Commission

European Investment Bank

List of Members


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N O T E S


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Glossary

EEA European Economic AreaEU European Union

FAO Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

FCR Feed Conversion Ratio

FP7 Seventh Framework Programme of the European Union for the funding of research and technological development

HORIZON 2020 - the new framework programme for Research and Development for the period 2014-2020

IMTA Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture

M - Millions of Euros

-OMICS - informally refers to a eld of study in biology ending in -omics, such as genomics, proteomics or metabolomics

PUFA Poly-Unsaturated Fatty Acids

RAS Recirculating Aquaculture System

RTDi- Research, Technical Development & Innovation

G L O S S A R Y



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