An aquaculture system that creates a net-positive environmental, economic, and social impact can be considered a sustainable form of aquaculture.
Shellfish and seaweed are types of seafood that have the potential to be farmed in restorative systems. These species, which are often cultivated on ropes, not only filter the water and require no addition of feed, but also provide spaces in which beneficial algae and other organisms can thrive.
Truly restorative aquaculture systems can feed communities, create local jobs, and improve ecosystems. In fact, the concept of rewilding–restoring the ecosystem to its natural state–can be achievable with strategic integration of native sealife, such as plants and shellfish.
However, while these species hold promise, there are considerations and caveats to integrating a restorative system. This type of aquaculture can be challenging to scale up to a level that can generate a sustainable profit. Environmental concerns can remain, as well. For example, filter-feeding oysters risk the introduction of oyster herpes, a virus that can kill oysters and negatively impact the greater ecosystem. Continued research into restorative types of aquaculture is needed to identify best practices to increase production without added risks.
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