Abstract
The vast majority of aquaculture practices around the world have been
pursued with significant nutritional and social benefits, and generally with little or no
environmental costs. However, it is essential for current efforts aiming at the future
success of aquaculture in both developing and developed countries, that potential
social and environmental problems are duly addressed in order to ensure that
aquaculture develops sustainably.
This document provides annotations to the Principles of Article 9 of the Code of
Conduct for Responsible Fisheries. These annotations are meant to serve as general
guidance, and should be taken as suggestions or observations intended to assist those
interested in identifying their own criteria and options for actions, as well as partners
for collaboration, in support of sustainable aquaculture development.
Given the diversity in aquaculture and the sometimes different perceptions of
sustainability, more balanced and informed approaches are required to address
developmental and environmental issues at any given location. Commitment for
collaboration, constructive dialogues among responsible partners, and participation of
aquafarmers and their communities are important when assigning responsibilities for
sustainable development of aquaculture.
Providing an enabling environment for sustainable development in aquaculture is the
responsibility of people in governments and their institutions, social and natural
scientists, media, financial institutions, special interest groups, including social and
private sector associations, as well as of aquaculture producers, manufacturers and
suppliers of inputs, processors and traders of aquaculture products. Commitment to
understanding, fairness and responsible attitudes in consultations and negotiations
between countries or regions will also help sustainable aquaculture development.
Contents
- Background
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Responsible development of aquaculture, including culture-based fisheries, in areas under national jurisdiction
- 3. Responsible development of aquaculture including culture-based fisheries within transboundary aquatic ecosystems
- 4. Use of aquatic genetic resources for the purposes of aquaculture including culture-based fisheries
- 5. Responsible aquaculture at the production level
- 6. References
Source: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) - January 2005
