New DNV report paves the way for the future of sustainable offshore Aquaculture in Norway

DNV assessed feasibility of offshore aquaculture facilities in Norway to address challenges such as limited coastal space and environmental concerns.

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Oslo, Norway – 21st November 2024 – DNV, the independent assurance and risk management provider, together with its acquired company Åkerblå, has delivered a new report presenting a comprehensive impact assessment of offshore aquaculture for the Norwegian Government.

Commissioned by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Fisheries, the report marks a significant step towards achieving sustainable offshore aquaculture. The Ministry is particularly interested in assessing the feasibility of offshore fish farming in the areas Norskerenna South, Frøyabanken North, and Trænabanken.

The report assessed various factors across the three locations, including wild salmon, seabirds, coral reefs, biodiversity, offshore wind, military training zones, fisheries, petroleum activities, and shipping.

Key findings include:

• Fish farms located in any of the three areas could pose significant risks to wild salmon populations. Near-shore aquaculture, in particular, carries a high risk of escaped farmed fish negatively impacting wild salmon stocks. However, these potential negative effects can likely be mitigated through advancements in technical innovation and the implementation of robust operational strategies
• Norskerenna Sør: In addition to the potential impacts on wild salmon, this region faces challenges related to spawning fish stocks. The area is characterized by demanding meteorological and hydrodynamic conditions, which can affect fish welfare and general fish farming operations. There is also the potential for conflicts with ship traffic, particularly due to activity between Rogaland and the North Sea oil and gas fields. However, these risks could be minimized by establishing dedicated shipping corridors and adapting facilities to align with operational needs.
• Frøyabanken Nord: This area benefits from extensive expertise developed through existing petroleum activities, providing a strong foundation for operations. While there are some coral areas, their overall extent is relatively limited. Parts of the region are important for seabirds, and further consideration is needed to address these environmental sensitivities. Additionally, the area overlaps with offshore wind assessment zones and petroleum exploration licenses, requiring further clarification through regulatory processes. Despite these challenges, the area offers favourable meteorological and hydrodynamic conditions for fish farming, supporting fish welfare. To address the risk of salmon louse transmission, robust operational strategies will be essential for successful aquaculture operations.
• Trænabanken: With favourable hydrodynamic conditions that promote fish health, this area presents a strong opportunity for aquaculture. However, challenges related to coral reefs and seabird populations must be managed carefully. Although several coral reefs have been identified, the area is large, and knowledge about the full extent of these reefs is limited. Similar to Frøyabanken Nord, Trænabanken overlaps with offshore wind assessment zones and petroleum exploration licenses, requiring further regulatory guidance. Establishing aquaculture in this region will require robust biosecurity measures and operational strategies. There is a significant risk of salmon louse transmission, both from coastal areas to offshore farms and vice versa, emphasizing the need for careful planning and mitigation.

The report is now open for consultation, and the industry eagerly anticipates feedback that will guide future decisions on offshore aquaculture. This marks a significant milestone in achieving the Norwegian Government’s goals for sustainable aquaculture.

“As Norway advances its offshore aquaculture capabilities, the findings from our assessment are vital for guiding the next phase of expansion," said Thomas Vogth-Eriksen, Global Aquaculture Director - Supply Chain & Product Assurance at DNV. "By carefully aligning these environmental and industry considerations, we can create an offshore aquaculture model that supports economic growth while preserving our marine ecosystems."

The Norwegian aquaculture industry is renowned worldwide for its large-scale farming of Atlantic salmon and other cold-water species. Norway’s ideal coastal geography, cold waters, and stringent regulations have fostered sustainable growth, while technological innovation and advancements in fish health have enhanced operational efficiency.

11/21/2024 8:48:00 AM