The island also produces blue mussels, oysters, rainbow trout and Atlantic halibut © AquaBounty
The provincial government worked together with industry leaders and ICF consulting group to develop the PEI Seafood Sector Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, after initially conducting a Seafood Sector Climate Risk and Opportunity Assessment, which identified the possible effects of climate change on PEI's aquaculture, commercial fishing, and processing sectors - which have an economic value of approximately $850 million and employ 8,000 people each year.
"The PEI Aquaculture Alliance is proud to support the Seafood Sector Climate Change Risk Assessment and Adaptation Strategy. This initiative is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of our Island aquaculture industry in the face of changing climate conditions. By proactively addressing potential risks and implementing adaptive strategies, we can help safeguard the future of the aquaculture industry and the livelihoods of those who depend on it,” said Peter Warris, executive director of PEI Aquaculture Alliance, in a statement.
The adaptation strategy outlines the following recommended actions for infrastructure, planning, research and monitoring programmes in the province:
- Hold climate readiness trainings and presentations
- Establish a climate impact monitoring program and database
- Establish a seafood industry resilience program
- Collaborate with researchers on innovation design solutions and gear guidelines
- Prepare species-specific adaptation plans
- Collaborate with researchers on climate-related biological threats
- Continue to support Broodstock programs
- Promote diversification to adapt to increased variability
- Continue to assess the feasibility and applicability of managed retreat
- Optimise shellfish operations
In the coming months, the provincial government will engage with federal partners, industry associations, academic institutions, Indigenous community of PEI, and other non-governmental organizations to explore and further develop options.
“Our government is dedicated to helping build a sustainable seafood industry for PEI. As one of our most valuable sectors, it is very important to adapt to climate change in a way that will ensure the seafood industry will have a bright future. Continued investments in climate change adaptation will help reduce risks and continue the conservation and economic viability of our ocean resources for generations to come. This strategy will be a key component in making that happen,” stated Zack Bell, the province’s minister of fisheries, tourism, sport and culture.
