Shared vision for sustainable aquaculture in the Mediterranean and Black Sea – Representatives from over 30 countries gathered in Heraklion, Greece, for the largest regional conference on aquaculture in the Mediterranean and Black Sea. The event, Shaping the Future of Aquaculture in the Mediterranean and Black Sea Region, was organised by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the Greek government, with financial support from the European Union. This meeting marked a crucial moment for the future sustainable development of the aquaculture sector in the region.
The conference provided an opportunity to assess the progress made since the inaugural meeting held ten years ago in Bari, Italy, and to discuss how to embrace innovation and sustainability to enhance resilience and unlock the full potential of aquaculture in the region, in line with the goals of the GFCM 2030 Strategy. Over the past ten years, marine and brackish water aquaculture production has increased by 91.3%, while revenues have grown by 74.5%.
Participants outlined a shared vision for the future of sustainable aquaculture, focusing on key pillars such as climate and economic resilience, governance, innovation, research, data collection and animal welfare. Emerging challenges were addressed, with a focus on climate change and food security. Thematic sessions included discussions on:
- Current and future aquaculture food production systems
- Moving towards ecologically sustainable production systems
- Strategies to address current and emerging challenges
Side events complemented the discussions, covering topics such as the use of artificial intelligence in the industry, networking and promoting the role of women in aquaculture and small-scale production.
Aquaculture plays an increasingly crucial role in food security, employment and economic development in the Mediterranean and Black Sea region. However, the region faces unique vulnerabilities, exacerbated by climate change, population growth and economic instability, which put increasing pressure on food systems. The conference emphasised the importance of unified and inclusive governance, regenerative aquaculture, promoting food security and responsible investment, as well as data collection, research and innovation.
This meeting represents a significant step towards sustainable aquaculture management in the region, promoting international cooperation and the adoption of innovative practices to address future challenges.
Shared vision for sustainable aquaculture in the Mediterranean and Black Sea
