Aquaculture Welfare

Farmed Salmon RAS Land-Based System Welfare

Recirculating aquaculture systems promise to address environmental concerns in salmon farming but introduce distinct welfare challenges.

Key Facts

RAS salmon farming is rapidly expanding in Norway, USA, and Europe
Consistent water quality in RAS can improve on sea cage conditions
High capital and running costs pressure producers to maximise stocking density
Gas supersaturation in RAS can cause bubble disease in fish
Stress from handling during grading operations in RAS is a welfare concern

Welfare Considerations

RAS offers genuine welfare advantages over sea cages by eliminating sea lice and allowing water quality control, but these benefits depend entirely on excellent management. High-density operation, gas management failures, and frequent handling can make RAS a significant welfare challenge. Welfare assessment frameworks need to be developed specifically for RAS conditions.

What You Can Do

Support welfare research specific to RAS salmon farming
Advocate for welfare standards addressing RAS-specific risks
Choose salmon certified under welfare schemes that assess RAS operations