ABPmer to help with decisions at aquaculture and fisheries R&D centre

The primary purpose of such a centre would be to support the sustainable development of UK aquaculture and fisheries with market-led research, development and analytical capabilities.

Caroline Roberts, Project Manager at ABPmer said; “Sustainable Leadership Ltd have been funded by the Seafish Industry Authority to assess the feasibility of such a centre.

Naturally, any such centre should meet market needs not currently being provided for. As part of the feasibility assessment, ABPmer staff will therefore identify the key R&D, technical development and likely innovation requirements of the aquaculture and fisheries industries to overcome current challenges and review the existing national and regional capacity to deliver them. We will also consider whether there is sufficient demand regionally or nationally for such services (beyond existing capacity and capability) to be commercially viable”.

Tim Goodwin of Sustainable Leadership Ltd said “We are delighted to be partnering with ABPmer. Their knowledge of the fishing and aquaculture sectors and established network will add tremendous value to the project”.

Stakeholder consultations will be undertaken during the review including face to face interviews, telephone surveys and a workshop.

Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture are recognised as having an important role to play in food security and coastal economies. ABPmer regularly undertakes fisheries and aquaculture research, data analysis and advice for a range of clients including government departments, statutory bodies, Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs), industry and NGOs.