BioMar and Cefetra Join Forces to Cut Emissions in Aquaculture

Global feed innovator BioMar has announced a strategic partnership with Cefetra, an agricultural supply chain specialist, aimed at significantly reducing emissions associated with key vegetable-based ingredients utilized in aquaculture diets. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in addressing sustainability within the aquaculture industry.

Understanding Emissions in Aquaculture

Aquaculture is renowned for boasting one of the lowest feed conversion ratios among animal farming sectors. However, it is worth noting that over 80% of fish emissions stem from feed and raw material sourcing. Thus, diminishing these emissions while bolstering supply chain resilience emerges as a critical challenge for the sector, as highlighted by BioMar.

Focus on Source Emissions

This partnership primarily concentrates on reducing emissions at the source. It not only aims to support farmers in transitioning to regenerative agricultural practices but also seeks to strengthen the relationship between crop production and fish farming.

Initiative Launch in the UK

The initiative kicks off in the UK, focusing on the carbon footprint of essential vegetable-based feed ingredients, such as wheat, which are vital for fish diets. Through the Cefetra Ecosystem Services (CES), launched in 2023 in collaboration with Soil Capital, UK farmers will receive support in adopting practices that enhance soil health while delivering verified carbon removals.

Financial Incentives for Farmers

Farmers participating in the program will be financially rewarded for their efforts towards improving sustainability, thus mitigating the risks associated with transitioning to more eco-friendly practices. This ultimately helps companies like BioMar achieve their climate targets via tangible, on-ground impacts.

Insights from Industry Leaders

James Neilson, Supply Chain Director at CES, remarked, “Cefetra’s unique position allows us to aggregate demand from hundreds of buyers across various industries. This capacity enables us to create long-term solutions that prioritize soil health and carbon removals. Our extensive knowledge of the supply chain ensures that the improvements made on farms translate into genuine climate benefits for downstream sectors like aquaculture.”

Ivana Russo, Formulations Manager and Sustainability Lead at BioMar UK, emphasized the importance of starting sustainable practices at the source, stating, “By partnering with CES, we are reducing emissions where it matters most while supporting farmers and constructing more resilient food systems. This collaboration represents a significant step toward achieving our science-based climate goals and delivering low-carbon feed solutions to our customers.”

Conclusion

This innovative partnership between BioMar and Cefetra underscores the commitment of both organizations to foster a sustainable future for aquaculture. By addressing the fundamental challenges of emissions and agricultural practices, they are paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally friendly food system.

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