Landmark Achievement: Lubimar Becomes First Farm Certified Under ASC Farm Standard

A Milestone for Responsible Aquaculture

The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) proudly announces a groundbreaking achievement in sustainable aquaculture. Lubimar, a family-owned estuary farm in southern Spain, has become the first farm globally to receive certification against the ASC Farm Standard.

<h2>Direct Path to Certification</h2>
<p>This certification marks Lubimar’s inaugural achievement under ASC guidelines. Instead of transitioning from an existing species-specific standard, the farm opted for a direct audit against the ASC Farm Standard. This decisive move reflects both leadership and confidence in meeting a comprehensive set of requirements.</p>

<h2>Setting a New Standard in Aquaculture</h2>
<p>Nestled in the protected <strong>Parque Natural de la Breña y Marismas del Barbate</strong> in Cadiz, Lubimar produces approximately 2,000 metric tonnes of fish annually, utilizing a unique estuarine system historically used for salt fields. This certification represents a pivotal moment for the aquaculture industry by proving that sustainable fish farming aligned with nature and community welfare is achievable.</p>

<h2>A Commitment to Sustainable Practices</h2>
<p>Well-known in Spain and exported to over 15 countries, Lubimar is particularly recognized for its high-quality seabass and seabream, branded as <strong>Lubina y Dorada de Estero</strong>. The recent certification not only reinforces the farm's reputation but underscores its commitment to responsible aquaculture that benefits all stakeholders.</p>

<h2>Innovative Ecosystem Restoration</h2>
<p>Lubimar operates within an extensive estuarine farming system characterized by low stocking densities, allowing a maximum of 3 kg of fish per cubic meter of water. The farm spans 700 hectares, yet only 35% is utilized for farming, with the remaining area reserved for natural ecosystems that contribute to biodiversity and sustainability. The farm’s low-density model ensures fish health and eliminates the need for antibiotics.</p>

<h2>Environmental and Community Focus</h2>
<p>In addition to fish production, Lubimar supports the growth of seaweed and previously cultivated oysters. This multitrophic approach fosters nutrient recycling and potential carbon sequestration. Furthermore, the farm incorporates renewable energy through solar panels to enhance sustainability efforts.</p>

<h2>Voices from Lubimar</h2>
<p>“When we arrived, these ponds were neglected salt pans,” noted Gontran de Ceballos, Sales Manager at Lubimar. “Today, we’ve restored biodiversity and made much of the area a natural wildlife habitat.” He emphasized the importance of their low-density farming model as a key component of fish welfare and environmental responsibility.</p>

<h2>A Benchmark for the Industry</h2>
<p>Chris Ninnes, CEO of ASC, praised Lubimar’s achievement, stating: “This landmark certification sends a powerful message that responsible aquaculture can be both practical and scalable.” He underscored the farm's alignment with the ASC standards and its commitment to environmental stewardship.</p>

<h2>Strategic Commitment to High Standards</h2>
<p>Gontran explained, “Choosing to be audited directly against the ASC Farm Standard was a strategic decision. It demonstrated our commitment to excellence in aquaculture.” He expressed pride in being the first to achieve this certification, which sets a new benchmark for the industry.</p>

<h2>Rigorous Certification Process</h2>
<p>Stefano Crea, Global Market & Industries Director at DNV, the certification body, elaborated on the rigorous audit process that Lubimar underwent, emphasizing their commitment to continuous improvement and transparency.</p>

<h2>A Call to Action for Global Farms</h2>
<p>By achieving this milestone, Lubimar paves the way for other farms globally to adopt similar practices. Chris Ninnes concluded, “As momentum builds, we anticipate more farms taking the step toward certification, proving their commitment to responsible aquaculture.”</p>

<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35b6PJlVTP0" title="Lubimar Farm Certification Video"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Image: Aerial view of Lubimar farm in Barbate, Spain, <a href="https://asc-aqua.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ASC</a></strong></p>