Advancing Responsible Barramundi Farming in Thailand

Groundbreaking Partnership Signed to Enhance Sustainability

The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), Laylanta Co., Ltd., and Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering responsible barramundi farming practices in Thailand. This MoU will facilitate the implementation of an Aquaculture Improvement Project (AIP) under ASC’s Improver Programme, specifically targeting the sustainability of barramundi cage culture within the ecologically significant Songkhla Lake.

Preserving Songkhla Lake’s Ecological Integrity

Located in southern Thailand, Songkhla Lake stands as the nation’s largest natural lake, characterized by its unique lagoon system that nurtures an array of biodiversity and supports local communities. Unfortunately, pressures from climate change, wastewater discharge, and intensifying human activities have resulted in deteriorating water quality, escalating sedimentation, and an increased risk of eutrophication.

These factors pose considerable challenges for the small-scale barramundi farmers who typically lack the necessary resources and technical expertise to monitor and adapt to shifting water conditions effectively.

Voices of Leadership

Chris Ninnes, CEO of ASC, emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “This project is crucial for enhancing farming practices, protecting the lake’s ecological balance, and securing the livelihoods of local communities. Collaborations like this illustrate how market demand can inspire positive transformations within aquaculture. By merging the ASC Improver Programme with robust local engagement and buyer commitment, we can assist farmers in making substantial enhancements while safeguarding their vital ecosystems.”

Collaborative Efforts for Improvement

The partnership aims to unite various supply chain participants to refine farming practices through a mix of technical assistance and market incentives. The structured AIP will provide small-scale farmers with the guidance necessary to adopt improved methods and work towards achieving ASC certification.

Thasit Natteesongsor, Director and Co-founder of Laylanta Seafood Co., Ltd., remarked, “Our vision for Songkhla Lake involves lessening the environmental impact of aquaculture, beginning with transitioning to eco-friendly farming techniques. We are currently implementing responsible practices through 11 pilot farms, intending to expand to 100 farms over the next three years. Our community largely consists of small-scale farmers lacking technical knowledge, making the AIP the ideal path forward.”

Commitment to Responsible Sourcing

Stephen Doe, Cluster Director of Culinary at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, noted, “Responsible seafood sourcing is integral to our sustainability initiatives. This MoU with Laylanta and ASC exemplifies our commitment to supporting traceable and responsibly farmed seafood. By ensuring consistent market demand, we can enhance the viability of local barramundi producers and provide high-quality offerings to our guests.”

Focus Areas for Improvement

The initiative will primarily concentrate on minimizing environmental impacts, boosting farm efficiency, and improving production practices, while expanding market access for responsibly farmed seafood. Initial assessments highlighted several critical areas for advancement:

• Water Quality Monitoring: Enhancing systems to manage fluctuations and facilitate better farming decisions.
• Feeding Practices: Mitigating waste and nutrient pollution through improved feed management.
• Record Keeping: Strengthening data collection regarding farm performance and fish health.
• Biosecurity: Preventing disease outbreaks and contamination risks.
• Ecosystem Management: Ensuring farming activities align with the lake’s ecological carrying capacity.

A Shared Vision for the Future

The MoU establishes a three-year collaborative framework designed to produce measurable improvements at the farm level. Laylanta will spearhead implementation and farmer engagement, while Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park will bolster the project by promoting responsible sourcing, thereby generating demand for enhanced products. ASC will deliver essential frameworks, technical support, and adherence to global standards.

Image: ASC