Sludge collection for reduced environmental impact from raised salmon produced in open cages
The Hardangerfjord is one of Norway's most densely farmed areas, with over 100,000 tonnes of farmed salmon produced in open cages annually. This leads to significant emissions of sludge, which can negatively affect the marine environment. The AquaPhoenix project aims to solve this problem by testing and demonstrating technology for collecting sludge from open cages. The research institutions NORCE and the Institute of Marine Research will measure the effects of sludge collection on the fjord environment, while industry partners such as Framo and Ragn-Sells will contribute technology and solutions for handling and reusing the sludge.
The project will develop solutions that not only reduce environmental impact, but also utilize the sludge as a resource. Framo, with its LiftUP technology, will collect and filter the sludge, which is then stored for further processing. Ragn-Sells will contribute technology to extract phosphorus from the sludge, which can be used as a sustainable ingredient in animal feed and as fertilizer in agriculture. This effort could lead to significantly reduced emissions and improved water quality in the fjord.
Increased circularity and sustainability
An important part of the AquaPhoenix project is to promote circularity in the aquaculture industry. Sludge from aquaculture, which contains valuable nutrients such as phosphorus, can be converted into products such as biogas and fertilizer. AquaPhoenix will be able to protect the Hardangerfjord, but it will also set a new standard for environmentally friendly aquaculture that can be transferred to other regions.
Together with Vestland County Council and the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, we will have a role in the advisory panel.
The AquaPhoenix project illustrates how innovation and collaboration can lead to solutions that strengthen both the environment and business. This initiative represents an important step towards a more sustainable future for the aquaculture industry, both in Norway and internationally.
Sources: https://www.framo.com/news/eu-horizon-hardangerfjord-waste-collection/
https://www.arendalsuka.no/programsok/details/23984
Image taken from: https://www.framo.com/aquaculture/liftup/
