Independent producers in the region include oyster producer Bendito Mar © Bendito Mar
“Our oceans and their resources are significantly degraded. It is no longer enough to assume that sustainability alone will reverse the damage. We must move beyond efforts to do no further harm and take huge strides toward generative and regenerative outcomes. It’s time to invest significantly in advanced technologies and systems,” said Christy Walton, founder of Innovaciones Alumbra, at the 2025 UN Ocean Conference (UNOC).
“Our hope is that this centre will accelerate the sector toward business models that restore ocean health and promote biodiversity while producing food and economic opportunities for communities,” she added.
The new centre aims to foster scientific and technological breakthroughs, placing generative and regenerative aquaculture at the forefront of ocean health and food security solutions to support sustainable blue economies. It will focus on multiple phases of the value chain for finfish, shellfish and algae – including species validation, advancing applied research and technology, refining production models for small and medium businesses, and building talent.
"In this Ocean Decade, we envision a healthy, resilient ocean that sustains all life. Regenerative aquaculture stands at the leading edge of innovation – restoring ecosystems, feeding communities, and proving that a thriving ocean and a thriving humanity go hand in hand," said Vidar Helgesen, executive secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO and assistant director-general of UNESCO.
The centre will be led by Dr Ernesto Rodriguez Leal, who has over 20 years of experience in applied science, engineering and technology and who has launched multiple startups, products, services and business models across robotics, healthcare and education. He will bring his experience to build an innovation ecosystem that drives the growth of warm-water regenerative aquaculture.
“We are building a space and a global alliance that brings scientists, entrepreneurs, and communities together to work side by side to solve problems that can benefit us today and in the future," said Dr Rodriguez Leal. “The CAAI will offer access to resources, hands-on innovation, and rapid deployment to advance our global ability to deliver on sustainable blue economies.”
"Sustainable and regenerative aquaculture is key to Mexico’s commitment to ocean health, food security, and climate action. It strengthens our national priorities while advancing our international commitments under the 2030 Agenda and the Ocean Decade," added Norma Munguia, general director for global affairs, at Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Once fully constructed, the centre will offer state-of-the-art facilities including laboratories, hatchery, technology, and open-ocean projects. It aims to build a global community of expert operators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and scientists committed to regenerative aquaculture.
