Audun Lem
Deputy Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Photo Credit © FAO/Riccardo De Luca
Food is not an option, it is a right. With the global population expected to reach 10 billion people by 2050, food security and nutrition present enormous challenges in the years ahead.
Aquaculture is the fastest growing sector of the global food industry. There is no doubt that products from aquaculture and fisheries can play a vital role in transforming our diets and making food security and nutrition a reality.
We are already witnessing dramatic change. The International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture 2022 (IYAFA) is a timely opportunity to celebrate the role of small-scale artisanal fishers, fishfarmers and fishworkers as well as further advance the contribution of the sector to providing healthy, safe and affordable food.
Increase in aquatic food consumption
Global production of aquatic food has increased by over 120% since 1990 and aquaculture now provides more than 50% of the total (from 19% in 1990). That share is expected to rise to 57% by 2030, according to OECD-FAO projections.
As our appetite for aquatic products expands, the pace of investment, innovation and technology in this sector is also on the rise. The adoption of new technological change and other advances is making a difference but must be matched by sustainable practices.
Asia currently leads global farmed aquatic animal production accounting for close to 90% of total output. While China, Indonesia, India and Vietnam among the world’s top producers, there is huge potential for expansion in Africa, Central and South America, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and landlocked countries.
Global production of aquatic food has increased by over 120% since 1990 and aquaculture now provides more than 50% of the total.
Food impact on sustainability
Environmental sustainability is critical. Aquatic food production is more efficient than land-based animal production and is also environmentally less impactful, producing lower GHG emissions. So it is a clear alternative, especially as the UN has identified aquatic foods among the healthiest sources of protein and micronutrients.
However, achieving a genuine ‘blue transformation’ is still a challenge. The ability of the industry to satisfy the world’s growing nutritional needs means staying one step ahead with innovation. At the same time, governments must provide the legal and policy framework to support growth and safeguard the livelihoods of those who depend on aquaculture.
Supporting livelihoods of communities
The importance of fisheries and aquaculture goes beyond nutrition: they support the livelihoods of around 10% of the world’s population and almost all of the people who depend on fisheries and aquaculture live in developing countries.
The International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture is a great opportunity to transform how we feed the planet and to advance aquaculture in a sustainable way that supports lives and livelihoods.