From Lehanagh Pool to London: Showcasing Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation
The Marine Institute highlights the path to sustainable food production at the Science Museum.
As the world grapples with the pressing questions of food security and environmental sustainability, Ireland steps into the spotlight with promising answers. This summer, the Marine Institute will present its pioneering work in sustainable aquaculture at the highly anticipated Future of Food exhibition at the Science Museum in London.
Exhibition Details
The exhibition, opening from 24 July 2025 to 4 January 2026, will delve into how scientific advancements can tackle the critical issues of climate change and biodiversity loss while addressing the needs of a growing global population. Admission to this enlightening exhibition is free of charge, welcoming millions of visitors each year to explore the future of food production.
Irish Marine Science on the Global Stage
“We are thrilled to represent Irish marine science at the Science Museum, a global hub for science education that attracts countless visitors annually,” remarked Dr. Rick Officer, CEO of the Marine Institute. “Our involvement underscores Ireland’s role as a leader in ocean research and our dedication to developing sustainable solutions for shared challenges.”
The Role of Aquaculture
Aquaculture, the practice of farming fish, shellfish, and seaweed, is already a vital component of global food security. It aids in local economic development, alleviates pressure on wild fish populations, and presents climate-resilient methods for producing high-quality protein. Researchers are constantly seeking ways to enhance the sustainability of aquaculture by developing smarter, more integrated systems that work harmoniously with nature.
Innovative Aquaculture Practices
One such innovative method is Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), which simulates natural food webs by cultivating various species from different trophic levels together. At the Marine Institute’s Lehanagh Pool research site in Bertraghboy Bay, Galway, scientists are experimenting with the simultaneous farming of organic salmon and lumpfish alongside lobster, oysters, scallops, sea urchins, and various species of kelp.
The Circular System Approach
Within this model, fish waste serves as a nutrient source for seaweed and filter-feeding shellfish, while lobsters consume leftover organic matter. This circular approach mitigates environmental impacts, recycles nutrients, and produces a variety of nutritious foods in a single location, transforming waste into a valuable resource.
Contributing to Global Goals
“Enhancing the circularity of our food systems is crucial for achieving climate objectives, restoring ecological balance, and ensuring healthier diets for future generations,” stated Pauline O’Donohoe, Senior Researcher at the Marine Institute. “We take pride in offering science-based solutions from Ireland to this global discourse on sustainable food production.”
Future of IMTA
While IMTA is currently in its pilot and research stages throughout Europe, the Lehanagh Pool site is part of the EU-funded ASTRAL project, supported by the Horizon 2020 initiative. Through this exhibition at the Science Museum in London, the Marine Institute aims to advocate for the broader adoption of this nature-inspired aquaculture model, emphasizing the critical importance of scientific research in designing more resilient and sustainable food systems.
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