Policies and technologies for a ‘fish out of place’

Abstract

In a world where the race to feed a growing population intensifies, the oceans have become the new frontier for food production. Aquaculture, particularly salmon farming, has risen as a beacon of hope, promising to deliver protein-rich food to millions. Yet, beneath the surface of this industry’s success, complex environmental challenges persist—most notably, the escape of farmed salmon, which casts long shadows over wild salmon populations and fragile marine ecosystems. This thesis evaluates the effectiveness of existing policies and technologies in mitigating the ecological risks associated with farmed salmon escapes. Through a detailed analysis of 14 global salmon production regions, the research assesses the strengths and weaknesses of these policy frameworks, revealing that while regulatory measures have evolved, their effectiveness is often constrained by weak enforcement and the inherent challenges of open-net pen aquaculture. Additionally, the thesis explores the role of triploid (sterile) salmon in addressing the environmental challenge of escapes, with a particular focus on aquaculture production in Newfoundland, Norway, and Tasmania. By situating these findings within the broader context of environmental policy and the global aquaculture industry, the thesis reveals the complexities of aligning production goals with environmental sustainability in food production.