The European Commission has launched a campaign to win hearts and minds with the message: “EU aquaculture – we work for you with passion”.
The initiative will, over the next three months, showcase the dedication and commitment of EU producers to sustainable aquaculture and to providing high-quality products. It also aims to show the benefits of developing the industry in the EU.
The Commission said: “By increasing production within the EU, we can reduce our dependence on imports for food and boost local economies.”
Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis hosted an event to launch the campaign in Brussels on Tuesday.
The campaign, developed in collaboration with Member States and the Aquaculture Advisory Council, focuses on raising awareness, understanding and support for the development of aquaculture – including the farming of fish, shellfish and algae – in the EU.
The campaign website features nine different species (mussels, trout, clams, sea bream, oysters, carp, salmon, meagre, and seaweed) and many aquaculture producers.
It also includes facts and figures on the aquaculture sector in each member state of the EU.
Through videos, educational content, and a road trip around EU aquaculture sites, it is hoped consumers will gain a better understanding of how the sector works, its benefits, and live an immersive experience “from farm to plate”.