That is the main conclusion of a study that Fisheries Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss (Ap) received handed over Tuesday.
She calls the report a milestone in the work to establish aquaculture at sea.
– It is important that we now have new and updated knowledge about the consequences that aquaculture in the designated areas could have for the environment, fish welfare and coexistence with other marine industries, says Næss.
On behalf of the government, the consulting company DNV has assessed the consequences of establishing aquaculture in the three areas. Aquaculture at sea is aquaculture (fish farming, shellfish farming or the cultivation of algae) that takes place further out at sea than is common today.
– The establishment could be of great importance for future value creation and activity in the Norwegian aquaculture industry, believes the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans.
In Sintef – report mentioned by NRK in 2022 established that offshore aquaculture can generate an annual value creation of around NOK 100 billion and involve several thousand jobs.
It is important to take measures to prevent escape and salmon lice
The area of Frøyabanken nord, which lies approximately 50 kilometers west of Frøya, could be well suited, according to the report. Trænabanken outside Helgeland can do the same.
When it comes to Norskerenna south, about 40 kilometers off the coast of Rogaland, the picture is somewhat different, according to DNV. As the area is relatively small, it can be more challenging to establish a good cluster structure with year-round operation.
The report also emphasizes that it is important to take mitigation measures to avoid possible serious consequences of aquaculture.
– This particularly applies to measures to reduce the likelihood of escape occurring and that we get a build-up of salmon lice in the areas, writes DNV.
They also point out that a good set of regulations should be drawn up for aquaculture at sea, and that requirements should be set for how to design concrete facilities and projects. This will reduce the risk of incidents.
Aim to light up the New Year
The Minister of Fisheries has previously said that the aim is to announce licenses during the first quarter of 2025, according to IntraFish and Salmon.
The investigation she now has on the table contributes to her being able to keep to her schedule, she points out.
– The report and consultation input will be important inputs in the authorities’ decision as to whether the three areas may be relevant for offshore aquaculture, and which parts of the areas should be announced first, says Næss.
The investigation is open for consultation until 20 December.
#Thumbs #aquaculture #Frøyabanken #Trænabanken #Norskerenna
