§
Pollution. Certification could be structured to prevent pollution of near coast zones due to extensive aquaculture and other practices such as discharge of effluents, and the use of drugs or chemicals.
§
Health and Safety. Certification could also be a method to guarantee fish that are healthy and safe for consumption.
It is important to note that aquaculture may be an unsustainable practice if it is not conducted in a responsible, environmentally sound manner. An aquaculture study conducted under the World Bank’s Marine Market Transformation Initiative (MMTI) has identified environmental problems that may potentially be caused by different forms of aquaculture. These problems and possible solutions to them are as follows: Environmental Problems and Solutions Related to Aquaculture 34 PROBLEM
SOLUTION
Wild capture of broodstock Wild capture of fingerlings Trade in fingerlings and export of disease Lack of legal framework
Breeding programs Expansion of hatchery capacity Testing for disease Develop legal frameworks with the help of international organizations Introduction of positive and negative incentives to abide by the rules Separate law enforcement and other government functions Develop coastal zone management plans Develop coastal zone management plans Include research in national aquaculture development plans, including government funding for such research Balance export plans with aquaculture development plans and food security plans for the nation Establish rules and proper procedures for discharge of effluents Establish rules and procedures Establish rules and procedures Establish rules and procedures; training
Enforcement of laws and regulations Conflict of law enforcement and other government functions Lack of effective land use allocation Preservation of coastal areas Lack of scientific research
Ambitious export plans for seafoods
Discharge of effluents Nutrients and organic matter Drugs and antibiotics Chemicals 34
Herman Cesar and Erik Hempel, “Opportunities and Constraints of Grouper Aquaculture in Asia,” (East Asia Environment and Social Development Discussion Paper Series; October 2000), p. 14.
- 11 -