Opportunities and challenges in new production systems for salmon farming in Norway—Industry perspective

• Published in: Marine policy 2024-12, Vol.170, p.106394, Article 106394
• Main Authors: Misund, Andreas, Thorvaldsen, Trine, Strand, Andrea Viken, Oftebro, Thea Lurås, Dahle, Stine Wiborg
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aquaculture; Closed containment; Exposed; Land-based; New production systems; RAS
• ISSN: 0308-597X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpol.2024.106394

The Norwegian salmon farming industry is characterized by an increasing technological diversity with new production systems emerging. The objective of this paper is to provide knowledge about challenges and opportunities with new production systems as perceived by industry representatives with hands-on experience. Interviews and workshops with fish farmers and suppliers illustrate that even though environmental issues concerning salmon lice, escapes, and diseases can be reduced, and in some cases solved, new challenges might arise. Semi-closed containment and land-based system concerns pertained to water quality and fish welfare, while exposed and offshore systems were more concerned about harsh conditions and their effects on fish, structures, and work operations. However, possibilities for beneficial new production strategies, the potential for a more stable production environment, and increased biosecurity are seen as important advantages. These findings provide valuable perspectives for industry, technology suppliers, and regulators moving forward. •New production technologies may solve or reduce challenges in open net pen fish farming, but also have challenges on their own.•Valuable industry views of challenges and opportunities with the new technologies are presented.•Land-based and semi-closed containment systems might encounter challenges with water quality and fish welfare.•Exposed and offshore systems might encounter challenges with fish welfare, structural design, and safe work operations.