The IPCC Report: Seaweed and Shellfish Aquaculture
Our General Manager Justin has given his thoughts on the IPCC Report released a couple of weeks ago. Hear what he has to say around the reports mention of Seaweed and Shellfish aquaculture, the challenges climate change is bringing and the need for immediate action to protect our coastal environments.
A few weeks ago the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) Synthesis Report. In it, the urgent need for action on climate change was highlighted. The report provides a stark warning about the severe impacts of global warming and stresses the importance of limiting warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. It is essentially reiterating what has been said for over 20 years. The report covers a wide range of mitigation and adaptation strategies. It also highlights the need for governments to act proactively in their approach to policy and the need for larger more sustainable investment into industries that support mitigation and adaptation. It is particularly relevant to seaweed and shellfish aquaculture due to their low impact production of food, carbon sequestration potential, and benefits to nature restoration. At Câr-Y-Môr, we hope that this warning will inspire organizations and individuals alike to take action in fighting the climate and biodiversity crisis.
Seaweed and shellfish aquaculture are increasingly being recognized as important tools for mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change. These forms of aquaculture can sequester carbon, provide habitat for marine organisms, and improve water quality. However these benefits need to be quantified on a larger scale. Additionally, seaweed and shellfish are highly nutritious and have the potential to be a sustainable and low-impact source of food. This aligns directly with what Câr-Y-Môr is trying to achieve. That is, improving the coastal environment and improving the wellbeing of the local community.
The report acknowledges the potential of seaweed and shellfish aquaculture to contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation. However, in Wales, this potential will not be realized unless proper measures are taken to ensure this industry can grow and thrive. Key actions that can be taken immediately are reducing the difficulty of marine licensing and ensuring adequate support is available for those working to sustainably scale this industry. The report also notes that coastal ecosystems, including those used for aquaculture, have significant potential for carbon sequestration, and the restoration and conservation of these ecosystems can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable seafood production, including seaweed and shellfish aquaculture, will also play a key role for achieving food security and reducing the environmental impact of food production. The climate will change, and we must adapt quickly to ensure future generations can thrive in a manner that benefits all.
However, the IPCC AR6 Synthesis Report also highlights the significant challenges facing seaweed and shellfish aquaculture in the face of climate change. Rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and changes in ocean circulation patterns are all likely to impact the productivity and viability of aquaculture operations. Adapting aquaculture practices (such as multispecies farming) to these changing conditions and developing strategies to enhance the resilience of aquaculture systems (such as pushing for net zero emissions and utilizing renewable energy in infrastructure development) are key. We should be realistic about what change will happen and ensure that we can adapt our food and nature recovery systems for the inevitable change that will take place. Strategies to ensure that humans and nature can adapt to a changing climate together whilst ensuring the overall factors that contribute to climate change are removed must be embraced.
The IPCC AR6 Synthesis Report underscores the importance of seaweed and shellfish aquaculture as a tool for mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change. However, it also highlights the need for urgent action to address the root causes of climate change and reduce its impacts on marine ecosystems. By taking action to limit greenhouse gas emissions, support sustainable aquaculture practices, and encourage collaboration amongst producers, governments, and product developers, we can help to protect the health and productivity of our oceans and ensure a more resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.