Aquaculture Certification - SEAFOOD Ecolabelling: Principles and Practice - page 119

Through the Responsible Aquaculture Program, GAA demonstrates the aqua-
culture industry's commitment to environmental and social sustainability. Con-
servationists frequently argue that any ecological change brought about by the
establishment of a new industry, or the intensification of an existing enterprise, is
undesirable. Sociologists often fail to give adequate acknowledgment to the benefits
gained by whole communities through improved communication networks, health
care and employment opportunities. Failure to identify or objectively assess such
matters during the planning and operational phases of projects can unduly stifle
legitimate and worthwhile developments (Lee & Connelly 2006). Doubtless, both
the environmental NGOs and GAA represent different factions in global society
that seek the same end result - a socially equitable and environmentally benign
aquaculture industry. Continuing dialogue that leads to objectively considered and
fairly implemented actions will be essential if these aims are to be met (Wickins &
Lee 2002).

5.8 The GAA principles

The GAA's Guiding Principles for Responsible Aquaculture were developed by
reference to the aquaculture section of the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible
Fisheries (FAO 1995) and the Responsible Care Program of the Chemical Manu-
facturers Association (www.responsiblecare-us.com). The principles are designed
to assist producers to raise aquaculture products in a socially and environmen-
tally responsible manner, and provide that companies and individuals engaged in
aquaculture, singularly and collectively:

shall coordinate and collaborate with national, regional, and local governments
in the development and implementation of policies, regulations, and proce-
dures necessary and practicable to achieve environmental, economic, and social
sustainability of aquaculture operations;

shall utilise only those sites for aquaculture facilities whose characteristics are
compatible with long-term sustainable operation with acceptable ecological ef-
fects, particularly avoiding unnecessary destruction of mangroves and other
environmentally significant flora and fauna;

shall design and operate aquaculture facilities in a manner that conserves water
resources, including underground sources of fresh water;

shall design and operate aquaculture facilities in a manner that minimises effects
of effluent on surface and ground water quality and sustains ecological diversity;

shall strive for continuing improvements in feed use and shall use therapeutic
agents judiciously in accordance with appropriate regulations and only when
needed based on common sense and best scientific judgment;

shall take all reasonable measures necessary to avoid disease outbreak among
culture species, between local farm sites, and across geographic areas;