Circular systems

Process technologies and product development was one of six research areas in Period 1 (2021-2024). You can find the research areas of period 2 on the research page.

Objectives

To identify and support the realization of raw materials for feed that close the nutrient cycle, based on the reuse of waste, the capture of nutrients from the aquatic environment and the use of organic side streams from renewable sources from forestry and agriculture to produce feed with a positive rather than a negative footprint.

Knowledge gaps

There are major challenges in improving the contribution to circular food production from aquaculture, both upstream and downstream from fish farms. Upstream challenges lie in reusing waste, capturing nutrients from the aquatic environment and using organic side streams from renewable sources in forestry and agriculture to produce feed with a positive rather than a negative footprint. Downstream activities include biological optimization as well as technical solutions to collect manure from both open and more closed systems. It is also about increasing the use and value of waste streams in crop production.

Methodology

• Research on novel and circular feeds, including "blue catch crops"
• Evaluate the nutritional properties of fish manure and its function as a biostimulant.
• Assess how fish species, farming protocols and rearing systems affect biostimulant profiles.
• Assess the possibility of automatic sampling and pre-concentration of trace biostimulants.
• System analysis as part of developing decision-making tools

Expected results

• Improved understanding among the Swedish public and improved perception that Swedish aquaculture activities are environmentally friendly.
• Circular economic models for Swedish aquaculture and food production; also a model for the rest of the world and especially for RAS and open cage systems.
• Limiting waste to the natural environment by capturing and using manure from aquaculture.