A newly released policy brief from the University of Exeter is urging the UK to immediately capitalize on land-based aquaculture technology, warning that failing to do so could mean missing out on a global “Blue Transformation.”

Launched at the Shellfish Association of Great Britain’s annual conference on July 14, the report argues that domestic investment in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) is essential for improving food security and creating employment.

Currently, the UK imports approximately 80% of its seafood, with domestic production remaining concentrated in a small number of species. With global demand for seafood accelerating and international forecasts suggesting that aquaculture production must double by 2050, researchers emphasize that the UK has a unique opportunity to diversify its food supply rather than continuing its dependence on imports.

The report outlines how RAS facilities, which utilize highly controlled environments to recycle water, could revolutionize the industry. These systems consume up to 99% less water than conventional aquaculture methods and can be established in diverse locations, including urban, rural, and brownfield sites.

Beyond sustainability, the technology enables integration with industrial waste heat from data centers and anaerobic digesters to drive energy efficiency.

As Rob Ellis of the University of Exeter noted, the challenge for the UK is not a lack of expertise or market demand, but the speed of the response, posing the question of whether the nation will act quickly enough to secure its place in this emerging sector. 

Political and industry figures have responded with support, highlighting both the economic and cultural value of the initiative.

Caroline Voaden, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Shellfish Aquaculture, indicated that she would press the government to consider the report’s recommendations to help the industry flourish. John Brown, managing director of Innovation Nursery, warned against the historic trend of the UK inventing new technologies only to watch them develop abroad.

David Jarrad, chief executive of the Shellfish Association of Great Britain, added that expanding the sector would provide essential ecosystem services, including water cleansing and carbon sequestration, alongside clear financial and food security benefits.

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