SustainED Drives Innovation in Ecuador’s Shrimp Aquaculture

Over 130 participants gathered for the sixth edition of SustainED, a platform focused on advancing innovation in shrimp aquaculture in Ecuador. The event highlighted the integration of clean energy, artificial intelligence, and precision nutrition into the shrimp farming agenda.

SustainED, an initiative from the Sustainable Shrimp Partnership (SSP) and the National Chamber of Aquaculture (CNA), took place on August 19 in Guayaquil. Themed “Innovation and Technology: Tools to Enhance Efficiency, Productivity, and Competitiveness,” the program showcased insights from 13 national and international experts across 12 technical sessions.

Key Insights and Trends

The discussions at SustainED focused on the key trends influencing the future of aquaculture. Topics included:

• The implementation of clean energy and electrification technologies
• The role of artificial intelligence, big data, and connectivity
• Innovations in precision and low-impact nutrition
• Tools for measuring and reducing environmental footprints

This edition of SustainED also featured interactive stands, allowing participants to engage directly with innovative tools and understand their practical applications.

Quotes from Industry Leaders

Pamela Nath, Director of the SSP, shared her insights on the importance of innovation in Ecuador’s aquaculture sector: “The history of aquaculture in Ecuador shows that innovation and technology have been key to overcoming challenges and achieving global leadership in shrimp production and exports. SustainED is a platform to keep us on that path, fostering continuous learning and the adoption of solutions that drive us to grow responsibly and efficiently.”

José Antonio Camposano, Executive President of the CNA, emphasized the community aspect of learning: “One of the great strengths of Ecuador’s shrimp industry is its ability to learn from leaders in different areas. When one producer sees another successfully implement an improvement, they strive to replicate it. Programs like SustainED accelerate this dynamic, establishing a platform for continuous knowledge sharing across the entire value chain.”

A Channel for Connection

The event proved to be an invaluable opportunity for learning and connection among producers, researchers, technicians, and suppliers. Participants explored various solutions applicable to shrimp farms and hatcheries, aiming to enhance productivity and sustainability within the sector.

Support for Sustainable Development

SustainED was sponsored by key industry players including Cargill, Huawei, Kampi, Omarsa, Plásticos Rival, and Vitapro, all committed to supporting a more competitive and responsible Ecuadorian aquaculture sector through education and innovation.

About the Sustainable Shrimp Partnership (SSP)

The Sustainable Shrimp Partnership (SSP) consists of leading companies dedicated to transforming the future of shrimp aquaculture. As pioneers in Ecuador, SSP members strive to produce high-quality shrimp under stringent social and environmental standards, enhancing collaboration and transparency in the process.

Image: Marco García, the Director of Integrated Accounts at Huawei Technologies Ecuador, during the session “Connectivity: Promoting a New Era in Shrimp Production.”