From fish farming to sustainable aquariums: GF supports aquatic life

GF supports the future of aquaculture with innovative solutions that ensure sustainable fish farming practices, as well as effective water treatment and management for aquariums and leisure water parks.

As global demand for seafood grows, aquaculture is becoming increasingly important in meeting these needs. Traditional fishing faces important challenges, with 35% of marine stocks already overfished. Aquaculture offers a responsible alternative, providing a reliable food source while protecting natural water ecosystems.

According to the UN’s 2024 FAO State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture report, fish farming currently accounts for 51% of the world’s fish production, surpassing wild capture fisheries.

Onshore farms use closed water systems that minimize fresh water use and ensure clean exchanges within natural water bodies. However, the risk of nutrient dispersion and the escape of non-native species remain key concerns that could harm local ecosystems. Maintaining water quality is another significant issue, as poor management can lead to disease outbreaks and reduced fish growth.

Andfjord Salmon's onshore facility (Norway) during construction, 2022.

In 2022, Andfjord Salmon, a Norwegian company, launched its first land-based farming project – an onshore facility designed for minimal environmental impact, supported by GF Building Flow Solutions' advanced water management technologies. Using a flow-through system that combines the benefits of traditional ocean pens and land-based farming, this facility operates below sea level, requiring minimal energy and reducing operational costs. The salmon are raised in spacious pools filled with pure, oxygen-rich water, providing ideal conditions for healthy growth.

GF Piping Systems is also helping address such challenges by providing technologies for water management. These systems ensure high-quality water circulation and support the growth of healthy fish populations while minimizing the environmental footprint – by integrating precision flow meters, valve solutions, and corrosion-resistant pipes.

GF Piping Systems supports the Greater Cleveland Aquarium (US) through Life Support Systems (LSS). Source: Pixabay.

And it goes beyond fish farming. At the Greater Cleveland Aquarium in Cleveland (US), GF Piping Systems' PF330AB Ultrasonic Flowmeter has proven invaluable in safeguarding marine life. This portable, non-intrusive device allows operators to precisely monitor water flow without disturbing the aquarium’s infrastructure. The technology optimizes filter performance, ensuring operational efficiency and superior animal care.

Through its innovative technologies, GF is shaping the future of sustainable aquaculture while promoting environmental responsibility and conservation efforts.

Published: 5 November 2024