Salmon Farming on the Brink of Change: A Call to Action Ahead of the May 2026 Election
Regulatory expert Anne Anderson emphasizes the opportunity for transformation in Scotland’s salmon farming industry.
A Watershed Moment
The upcoming Scottish Parliament election on 7 May 2026 is being heralded as a critical juncture for the salmon farming sector, according to Anne Anderson, a prominent former regulatory chief and sustainability advocate. Having previously served as the Chief Officer of the Regulatory Portfolio at the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), Anderson later pioneered the industry’s first sustainability charter in Scotland.
Long-Standing Challenges
Anderson asserts that a new government could be a “must-seize opportunity” to confront the persistent issues that have long plagued the industry. Despite nearly a decade of scrutiny, reviews, and minor reforms, the sector remains at a standstill regarding meaningful progress on key fronts.
Insights from Recent Inquiries
She points to the 2018 Parliamentary inquiry into salmon farming, which uncovered significant concerns like fish welfare, environmental impacts, and regulatory delays. “Politicians from all parties understand the sector’s importance to Scotland, particularly its rural communities,” Anderson noted. However, the problems previously identified continue to exist, necessitating urgent action.
Political Landscape and Collaborative Solutions
As the May election approaches, Anderson sees this as an opportunity for a transformational approach to governance in areas such as the economy, rural affairs, and environmental policy. “The new administration can and should leverage the insights gained over the years to implement practical solutions,” she said.
A Call for Unity
Anderson emphasizes that merely electing a new government will not suffice; collaboration across all viewpoints—pro, con, and undecided—is essential. “In light of global events, entrenched positions only create division. We need to move past traditional methods and embrace a more inclusive, science-backed approach,” she states.
A Vision for the Future
In February 2026, believing in the power of collaboration, Anderson launched TirMara Advisory, a consultancy aimed at bridging the gap between existing practices and innovative possibilities in salmon farming. “Real change often comes from rethinking how we operate,” she remarked.
Regulatory Innovation Required
Anderson is clear that simply updating existing regulations will not be sufficient. She referenced the recent extension of Scottish marine planning zones, which increased farmable areas from three to twelve nautical miles. “While this widens options for companies, without embracing new technologies, it only shifts problems rather than resolving them,” she explained.
Exciting Prospects Ahead
A comprehensive, integrated approach to aquaculture regulation is necessary—potentially including a new Aquaculture Bill. “Let’s not rule anything out. The challenges we face are significant, but they are solvable if we open our minds to alternative methods,” Anderson concluded.
The Way Forward
With a new government poised to take charge, Anderson believes there is tremendous potential for progress across critical areas by 2031. “It’s genuinely exciting to envision what could be accomplished collectively,” she stated, urging stakeholders across the board to unite for the betterment of Scotland’s salmon farming industry.
Photo: Anne Anderson in front of the Scottish Parliament. Image credit: Craig Stephen Photography.
