The recognition was awarded on March 12 during AquaExpo Santa Elena 2025 as part of the progress achieved through the Scale Up programme – an initiative developed by SSP and CNA to raise standards in Ecuador’s shrimp hatcheries, aligning their processes with environmental, social, animal welfare and governance criteria. Through training, audits, and the implementation of operational improvements, these hatcheries achieved 100 percent compliance with the standards outlined in the Technical Guide for the Sustainability of Shrimp Larval Production Hatcheries.
“As the first stage in the shrimp production chain, hatcheries lay the foundation for sustainable shrimp farming. This recognition validates their commitment and reaffirms that responsible production strengthens both efficiency and competitiveness in the sector. These hatcheries are proving, with real action, that sustainability is a competitive advantage for our industry,” stated José Antonio Camposano, executive president of CNA.
Meanwhile, Pamela Nath, director of SSP, emphasised: “Scale Up has provided clear guidelines to optimise processes and resources, implement responsible practices, ensure animal welfare, comply with national regulations, and meet international standards in shrimp larval production. Seeing hatcheries improve their performance throughout this project and recognising the value of sustainability as a standard confirms that we are on the right path.”
The Scale Up programme was created to recognise and strengthen sustainable hatcheries. During this first pilot phase, tools and advisory support were provided to closed-cycle and larviculture hatcheries, assisting them in implementing improved environmental and social practices.
As a result, 17 hatcheries joined the initiative, and over 105 people were trained in the Technical Guide. This process has increased awareness of the importance of sustainability and outlined a clear path for continuous improvement within the industry.
“Sustainability is an ongoing process. In the next edition of the program, we will continue recognising hatcheries that achieve 100 percemt compliance with the Technical Guide while expanding opportunities for more hatcheries to join and advance on this path,” added Nath.
