Innovative Waste Recycling Initiative at Bakkafrost’s Aquaculture Hatchery

Support for Salmon Farm Company Project to Convert Waste into Usable Product. A groundbreaking project aimed at recycling waste at an aquaculture hatchery in Wester Ross has garnered significant funding of up to £630,290 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Project Overview

Bakkafrost Scotland Limited, a key player in the salmon farming sector, is spearheading this innovative initiative, which boasts a total investment exceeding £2.5 million. This project is notable for being the first of its kind in Scotland.

The Pyrolysis Process

Utilizing a technique known as pyrolysis, the project aims to transform aquaculture waste into biochar, a valuable product intended for the forestry sector. This sustainable approach not only alleviates waste but also contributes positively to the environment.

Bakkafrost’s Commitment to Sustainability

As one of Scotland’s largest producers of farmed salmon, Bakkafrost has made strategic investments, particularly following its acquisition of the Scottish Salmon Company in 2019. A major highlight is the establishment of a new recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) hatchery located at Kishorn in Wester Ross, which allows Bakkafrost to increase the production of high-quality smolts.

A Circular Economy

The enclosed RAS hatchery is designed to efficiently capture fish waste, which will subsequently be processed at the new pyrolysis facility. Alastair Nicolson, HIE’s area manager for Lochaber, Skye, and Wester Ross, expressed his support:

“We welcome this innovative project, which turns what was a waste stream into a product enhancing the natural environment. It also reduces the volume of waste transported out of the area, aligning with the business’s commitment to minimize environmental impact.”

Future Developments

Ian Laister, managing director of Bakkafrost Scotland, commented on the technological advancements facilitating this process:

“In a recirculating aquaculture system facility like our Applecross site, substantial quantities of waste materials are produced that need to be separated from the water. Traditionally seen as waste, we are now able to convert this material into environmentally friendly fertilizers for forestry applications. The pyrolysis system supports our sustainability goals, creating a circular economy of production. It will be operational by the end of the year.”

Conclusion

This initiative not only underscores Bakkafrost’s commitment to sustainability but also paves the way for innovative waste management practices in the aquaculture industry.

Image credit: Bakkafrost Scotland

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