Legislation measures

A technical study should be a pre-condition and should be carried out by all aquaculture farmers to receive a licence to set up offshore installations for seaweed, shellfish or fish farming. This technical study should also determine whether the installation is storm proof.

Preconditions for licensing Preconditions for licensing

Photo: Mariana Mata-Lara Photo: Mariana Mata-Lara

Although there is never 100% certainty, this will likely reduce the risk of damage to the installation

Relevant type of aquaculture:

Fish Shellfish Seaweed

Relevant sea basin:

North

Relevant stage:

Prevention and reduction

Related Barriers:

  • Additional incentives from the government to invest in more durable materials and alternative solutions are lacking.

  • The design of equipment is not always adapted to offshore environments or stormy weather.

  • The sector needs more information exchange and dialogue (e.g. workshops, trainings, forums, common toolboxes, free best practice guidelines, etc.).

  • Designers and manufacturers of aquaculture equipment are not sufficiently aware and motivated to seek alternative materials that would make their products more resistant and less polluting.

Related Good Practice:

P&R GP2.1

Technical studies to determine storm proof character of installation

In the Netherlands, a technical study is mandatory to receive a permit for the installation of offshore seaweed farms. This requested technical study determines whether the installation is storm proof. Although there is never 100% certainty, this likely reduces the risk of damage to the installation.