Introduction
In response to growing global seafood demand and the imperative for sustainable food systems, Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), Ireland’s Seafood Development Agency, has published its first sustainability report on the Irish aquaculture sector. Sustainability reporting in aquaculture is essential for tracking progress, identifying areas for improvement, and informing policy and investment decisions. Sustainability reports provide transparent, science-based data that enable industry, stakeholders, regulators, and the public to assess environmental, economic, and social performance—ensuring that growth in the sector aligns with national and EU sustainability objectives (EC, 2019, 2020, 2021, DAFM 2023). This report establishes a baseline assessment of the sustainability performance of the Irish salmon, rope mussel, and oyster farming sectors , using data from 2017 to 2019.
The initiative aims to supports both the European Union’s Strategic Guidelines for the Sustainable Development of EU Aquaculture (2021–2030) (EC, 2021) and Ireland’s National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture Development (DAFM, 2023).
Materials and Methods
The evaluation framework spanned four key pillars: environmental impact, economic performance, social contribution, and innovation. Data collected as part of national annual surveys and other national reports provided background information which allowed for analysis and investigation across the four pillars. In total 24 impact indicators were used as part of the analysis Environmental indicators assessed greenhouse gas emissions , feed resource efficiency, edible protein energy return on investment, meals produced and spatial use. Economic indicators included Gross Value Added (GVA), running cost to turnover ratio, labour productivity, and net profit. Social impacts we re assessed through employment multipliers, workforce demographics, and gender diversity. Innovation was measured by the adoption of new products, processes, and organis ational forms.
Results
Environmental analyses demonstrated that Irish aquaculture operates as a low-carbon, resource-efficient sector, producing over 154 million meals annually . Edible protein energy return on investment also demonstrated strong results, indicating efficient returns. Year-to-year variability in environmental performance was noted but overall sustainability indicators remain strong. Economically, while GVA decreased in certain sectors, sales value per unit area improved. Socially, the sector generated significant employment and wage multipliers; however, challenges remain with an ageing workforce, low recruitment rates, and limited female participation. A high level of innovation was observed, including advancements in process control and organizational structures.
Discussion
This inaugural sustainability report provides vital, transparent data that strengthens Ireland’s ability to meet EU sustainability targets and national aquaculture goals. It aligns with the EU’s strategic objectives to foster competitive and resilient aquaculture, while supporting Ireland’s commitment to building a climate-neutral and socially inclusive seafood sector. The report establishes a critical foundation for evidence-based policymaking, strategic planning, and continuous sectoral improvement. The report also provides data which can be used in the curation and further development of the social license for these aquaculture activities in coastal and rural communities.
Conclusion
The findings affirm that the Irish aquaculture sector is well-positioned to contribute to EU and national sustainability ambitions. Ongoing monitoring, innovation, and adaptive management are essential to maintaining progress and securing a sustainable future for aquaculture in Ireland and beyond.
References
Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. (2023). National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture Development 2030 . https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/ece67-national-strategic-plan-for-sustainable-aquaculture-development-2030/
European Commission. (2021). Strategic guidelines for a more sustainable and competitive EU aquaculture for the period 2021 to 2030 (COM/2021/236 final). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52021DC0236
European Commission. (2019). The European Green Deal (COM/2019/640 final). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52019DC0640
European Commission. (2020). A Farm to Fork Strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally-friendly food system (COM/2020/381 final). https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52020DC0381