Aquaculture as a solution to food security and livelihoods in the Coral Triangle

The WWF Coral Triangle Programme recently released a discussion paper on how aquaculture, if managed responsibly, can provide effective solutions for food and livelihood security in the Coral Triangle region.

The discussion paper, titled Sustainable Aquaculture as a Solution for Food and Livelihood Security in the Coral Triangle: Recommendations for Strategic Investment, provides an in-depth look at the rapid expansion of the aquaculture industry in the Asian part of the Coral Triangle. It highlights the industry’s significance to food security and livelihoods, recognizing aquaculture as an increasingly important component of the region’s economy and a vital source of daily protein for local communities.

In addition, the paper examines the environmental and socio-cultural impacts of aquaculture on the Coral Triangle’s fragile marine ecosystems. More importantly, it provides recommendations and solutions to transform the industry into a more responsible sector capable of addressing the growing food and livelihood needs of the region.

Using examples and case studies from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, the paper describes trends in aquaculture development across Asia and summarizes key lessons on best practices in various types of aquaculture.

The paper emphasizes that, to achieve the goals of the Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security (CTI-CFF), strategic investments must be made to reduce the negative impacts of current aquaculture operations. Expansion of seafood production should focus on innovation, promoting low-footprint aquaculture (LFA), and minimizing the environmental footprint of existing farming practices.

While investments in technology and improved practices can mitigate negative impacts, promoting LFA can significantly sustain local livelihoods, enhance domestic food security, and generate export revenues. These investments should also reduce reliance on wild-caught fish for feed and minimize local and regional conflicts between communities, sectors, and countries competing for jobs and food resources.

The paper further provides recommendations for investors and stakeholders interested in supporting sustainable aquaculture as part of a blue economy for livelihoods and food security in the Coral Triangle region.