AZA4ICE Experts Advance Circular Aquaculture in the Bay of Cádiz 🌊🐟♻️
On February 25, 2025, experts from the AZA4ICE project convened in Cádiz, Spain, for the 1st LiRRIE Meeting, hosted by IFAPA. This interactive event aimed to refine methodologies that enhance aquaculture profitability through circular practices, bringing together key stakeholders from across the sector.
Key Discussions & Insights
🔹 Quadruple helix collaboration – Representatives from academia, industry, government, and civil society explored three fundamental pillars for sustainable aquaculture:
- Site planning – Optimizing aquaculture locations to minimize environmental impact and maximize efficiency.
- Species adaptation – Identifying species best suited for circular aquaculture models.
- Circularity criteria – Establishing benchmarks for resource efficiency and sustainability in aquaculture practices.
🔹 Focus on Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA) – This approach enhances biodiversity, improves resource utilization, and promotes economic and environmental sustainability. By integrating different species in a balanced ecosystem, IMTA supports responsible aquaculture development.
🔹 Reducing sectoral conflicts – The AZA4ICE methodology aims to harmonize aquaculture with other coastal activities, such as tourism and fisheries, ensuring inclusive governance and sustainable blue growth.
This first LiRRIE event marked a crucial step in the project, engaging stakeholders in validating new methodologies for Allocated Zones for Circular Aquaculture (C-AZAs). The insights gathered will shape upcoming pilot actions across the Euro-Mediterranean region.
📍 Stay tuned as AZA4ICE continues to drive innovation and sustainability in aquaculture! 🌍🐠
