The Global Aquaculture Alliance announced yesterday that it is seeking nominations for its new Standards Oversight Committee, which will oversee and help implement the organization's Best Aquaculture Practices.
"The ratification of the role and responsibility of the SOC in the governance and oversight of the BAP standards has been a lengthy and painstaking process, in which input from many groups was sought and incorporated into the committee structure," says GAA Executive Director Wally Stevens. "The fact that we have received and included input from many stakeholders in this effort should address any questions about the transparency of our process in setting standards that are both rigorous and attainable as we strive to advance the sustainability of aquaculture on a global basis."
Currently, shrimp hatcheries, farms and processing facilities are certified under the BAP standards by the independent Aquaculture Certification Council. One-quarter of global shrimp production and one-third of U.S.-consumed shrimp go through Best Aquaculture Practices-certified facility.
"The numbers are increasing as companies and marketplace leaders realize the value of BAP certification," he said.
Certifications standards for channel catfish farms and processing facilities were finalized in mid-May. Draft standards for tilapia farms were just released and standards for fish feed mills and pangasius farms are in the works.
