The problem

A major constraint on marine aquaculture development across Europe is a lack of suitable sites for development. To overcome this shortage, but continue to develop, the industry needs to move offshore. Such a move presents a wide variety of new challenges for successful operation in a demanding environment. These challenges can best be met by sharing experience and technical developments, possibly through a centrally coordinated technology platform.

Overview:

OATP will collect, collate and validate data and opinions from a diverse range of sources on the opportunities and requirements of offshore aquaculture in Europe. It will:

• Develop an up-to-date offshore aquaculture profile across the EU
• Draft a common vision of offshore aquaculture, and the role of research, technology, development and innovation (RTDI) for the EU
• Carry out a gap analysis to identify areas of strength and weakness
• Identify the role of a technology platform to increase synergies, add value and boost competitiveness for EU offshore aquaculture
• Ensure appropriate linkages with complementary technology platforms 

Contribution to policy development:

• OATP-industry collaboration will present the Commission with an overview of RTDI priorities for promoting the sector.
• The project will provide information on the investment necessary if aquaculture is to continue its expansion through the offshore option.
• It will identify the strengths and weaknesses of the European sector in a worldwide context.
• It will identify regional opportunities for economic development and help raise standards across the EU.

Project deliverables

• Collating stakeholder views on the offshore aquaculture sector in Europe – July 2007
• Proceedings of stakeholder seminars in Ireland, Spain or Italy and Scandinavia – September 2007
• Proceeding of offshore aquaculture conference – September 2007
• EU and EETA sector profile within world aquaculture – February 2008
• Report on European offshore aquaculture 2020 and reports on EU research priorities and investment requirements 2008-13 and other R&D issues – February 2008
• Offshore sector SWOT analysis – February 2008
• Report role of a technology platform in achieving R&D goals – February 2008
• Project conclusions and policy implementation plan – February 2008

Dissemination

• Project website – updated regularly
• Newsletter and accompanying press release – April 2007
• Direct communication with the aquaculture industry and other stakeholders – throughout project
• Media dissemination – throughout project
• Presentation of progress and results at formal and informal workshops, seminars and conferences – as opportunities arise

Technical information

Project acronym: OATP
Project’s official full title: Evaluation of the promotion of Offshore Aquaculture through a Technology Platform
Research priority: Modernisation and sustainability of fisheries, including aquaculture-based production systems
Specific webpage: Details not yet available
Proposal/contract no: 044290
Start date: January 2007
Kick off meeting: January 2007
Completion date: February 2008
European Commission scientific officer: Jacques Fuchs, Jacques.FUCHS@ec.europa.eu

Coordinator: Dr David Jackson, dave.jackson@marine.ie 
Name: Marine Institute
Abbreviated name: MI
Address: Rinville, Oranmore, Co. Galway
Tel: +353 91 387 200
Fax: +353 91 387 201
Country: Ireland
Website: http://www.marine.ie

Partners

Name: SINTEF Fisheries and Aquaculture
Abbreviated name: SINTEF
Country: Norway

Name: Fundacion Centro Tecnologico del Mar
Abbreviated name: CETMAR
Country: Spain