Seaweed Aquaculture in British Columbia: Policy, Regulations and Recommendations for Mitigating Potential Ecological Effects
Published by:
David Suzuki Foundation
Authored by:
Rebecca Martone,
Isabel R. Gregr,
Edward J. Gregr
ISBN:
978-1-998631-04-9
Biodiversity, Oceans and fresh water
How would an emerging seaweed aquaculture industry affect British Columbia’s coastal ecosystems? What regulations exist to mitigate any negative effects, and what more are needed?
As an emerging seaweed aquaculture industry eyes B.C.’s 25,000-kilometre coastline as fertile ground for expansion, a new report released by the David Suzuki Foundation reviews the ecological risks and potential benefits that seaweed aquaculture presents to B.C.’s coast, and maps the current regulatory landscape that manages the industry. The report identifies gaps in the regulatory framework and makes key recommendations for decision-makers, namely:
- Comprehensive consultation with First Nations to understand the social, cultural, economic and ecological issues of seaweed aquaculture in the context of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.
- Comprehensive and transparent collaboration between all levels of Crown governments to review the industry’s potential ecological effects, particularly regarding jurisdictional complexities.
- Updated legislation, specific to seaweed aquaculture, to address key concerns, including the offshore jurisdictional gap and protection of nearshore marine ecosystems.
- In the near term, the development of policy to give immediate guidance and improve clarity and transparency.
