The Urgent Need to Address Intensive Aquaculture
There can be no healthy planet with a sick ocean. As the true “lungs” of our Earth, the ocean is home to millions of species that regulate the climate and sequester carbon. Unfortunately, our food supply has become its primary source of destruction. While 92% of wild fish species are overfished, the global aquaculture industry is booming and is projected to grow by 75% by 2040. Far from alleviating pressure on marine biodiversity, these under-regulated farms—particularly those raising carnivorous species like salmon—are dramatically increasing the strain on ecosystems.
A scientific study to raise awareness
To combat this inefficient and polluting production system, KRESK 4 OCEANS is supporting Seastemik in conducting a rigorous investigation. The overall goal is to raise awareness through science:
- Conduct in-depth literature reviews combined with novel laboratory tests on fish.
- To assess the actual toxicity associated with PFAS, endocrine disruptors, and microplastics present in the flesh of farmed salmon.
Impacts on the Ocean and Society
The impact of this industry is of critical importance and affects several areas:
- Environmental degradation: destruction of marine habitats, pollution, and a drastic loss of local biodiversity.
- Human health: direct ingestion of pollutants and the accumulation of contaminants in the food chain, which can lead to the development of diseases.
- Global injustice: Overfishing of local species in developing countries to feed aquaculture operations, leading to severe food insecurity.
- Ethical crisis: Intensive confinement causing great suffering for billions of marine animals.
Action Plan (2026–2027)
- Step 1: In-depth analysis of the current state of the art in science.
- Step 2: Targeted laboratory tests to identify contaminants in farmed salmon.
- Step 3: Publication of a comprehensive scientific investigation report (30 to 40 pages), scheduled for the fall.
- Step 4: An outreach campaign to develop a strong advocacy strategy aimed at the general public and government officials.
- Step 5: Final assessment of the project’s impact.
Discover the Pinkbombs awareness campaign
At the same time, Kresk 4 Oceans supports SEASTEMIK’s awareness campaign against intensive salmon farming.