of a sustainable marine aquaculture sector in South Africa
10 September 2007
The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism has published the Policy
for the Development of a Sustainable Marne Aquaculture Sector in South Africa
on Friday, 7 September 2007, following the completion of a two-year intensive
stakeholder engagement process.
The main purpose of the policy is to encourage acceleration of the
development of the marine aquaculture industry. It is further aimed at
promoting the development of an economically sustainable and globally
competitive industry with minimum negative impact on the environment.
Marine Aquaculture presents an opportunity to substantially increase the
diversity of economic activity in coastal areas specifically where declining
fish stocks and shifts in distribution of certain fish species have led to job
losses and economic hardships for people who historically found employment in
the fishing industry. The industry also has potential to create skills based
employment and income for coastal communities.
The key objectives are to:
* create an enabling environment that will promote the growth of marine
aquaculture in South Africa and enhance the industry's contribution to economic
growth
* promote transformation and broader participation in the aquaculture
industry
* support and develop regulatory and management mechanisms aimed at avoiding or
minimising adverse environmental impacts
* expand the resources base from a few species currently being farmed to a more
diverse array of species.
The policy will be complemented by a Marine Aquaculture Development Plan
which will outline strategies for its practical implementation.
The policy is available on the Department of Environmental Affairs and
Tourism (http://www.deat.gov.za).
Contact:
Mava Scott
Cell: 082 411 9821
Carol Moses
Cell: 082 829 3917
Issued by: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
10 September 2007
Source: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (http://www.deat.gov.za)
