EXECUTIVE SUMMARY — Sustainable Shellfish: Recommendations for Responsible Aquaculture

Published by: David Suzuki Foundation
Authored by: Heather Deal

Biodiversity, Oceans and fresh water fisheries and aquaculture, protecting coastal waters, species at risk, British Columbia, shellfish, agriculture, conservation, industry, water systems, policy and regulation

This is the executive summary of a report by David Suzuki Foundation scientist Heather Deal that outlines some of the main ecological concerns with shellfish farming on the B.C. coast, including the impacts of cultivating alien species in B.C. waters, the effects of monocultures in areas of high biodiversity, the impacts of shellfish farming on other species and the harmful effects that aquaculture-related human activities have on beaches and in the marine environment. The report also points to the need for more research and analysis as the industry expands, and concludes with a series of operational tips and recommendations for shellfish farmers and policy makers.