ACTION PLAN
The AQUAPHOENIX action plan is organised across seven work packages, in which industry-leading partners work collaboratively to scientifically validate, implement, scale and share clean aquaculture solutions and sustainable uses of sludge.
WP1
Development and demonstration of SludgeCollect
Install, demonstrate and optimise “SludgeCollect” – novel technologies that harvest sludge (waste) from open pen fish farms – at active production sites in Hardangerfjord, Norway. Test and verify the transferability of sludge collection technology to production sites in the Åland archipelago, Finland.
WP2
Determine the seafloor environmental impact of aquaculture emissions and effects of sludge removal
Assess the seafloor environmental effects of traditional aquaculture including pollution, ecosystem degradation and loss of biodiversity. Validate how sludge collection technology mitigates these effects and helps restore seafloor ecosystems.
WP3
Measure and model sludge removal consequences for the pelagic ecosystem
Assess the environmental impacts of sludge collection technology including its effects on nutrient levels, organic matter dispersal and local species. Model what-if scenarios to understand the impact of implementing this technology at full scale.
WP4
Sludge processing and downstream valorisation pathways
Grow the circular value of aquaculture waste. Develop and demonstrate the scalable uses of sludge as a circular resource for producing renewable energy, sustainable fertiliser and novel food and feed ingredients.
WP5
Enabling scale through novel governance and policy innovation
Engage industry, policy and research stakeholders at a local, regional and national level. Inform effective policies and incentives for adopting circular aquaculture.
WP6
Maximising impact: communications, dissemination and exploitation
Communicate and maximise the societal, environmental and economic value of AQUAPHOENIX.
WP7
Project coordination and data management
Coordinate efficient execution of project activities and objectives. Ensure smooth collaboration among all partners.