Fisheries & Aquaculture

Aquatic ecosystems provide essential services supporting human food security, livelihoods, and biodiversity. In 2022, global fisheries and aquaculture production reached a record 185 million tonnes, a huge share of which came from low- and middle-income countries. For the first time, aquaculture production surpassed capture fisheries, highlighting its growing relevance and opportunities for controlled conditions in the context of a changing climate. About 90% of aquatic food production is for human consumption and crucial for diets, especially in developing countries. Fisheries and aquaculture also provide employment for 62 million people globally and has become a vital resource for coastal communities. These sectors are also facing increasing environmental challenges and vulnerabilities linked to climate change, biodiversity degradation and illegal, unregulated and unreported (IUU) fishing, calling for better regulations, monitoring and conservation measures. NIRAS promotes multi-dimensional and systemic approaches addressing the drivers and opportunities linked to the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, tapping into both local knowledge and scientific innovation. NIRAS views these sectors as key to promoting sustainable livelihoods and other ecosystem services in coastal areas and beyond. Balancing human needs with technical progress and biodiversity conservation lies at the heart of our work in these sectors.