Exploring economic and legal barriers to commercial aquaponics in the EU through the lens of the UK and policy proposals to address them

Abstract

Aquaponics is a food production system which connects recirculating aquaculture (fish) to hydroponics (plants) systems. Although aquaponics has the potential to improve soil conditions by reducing erosion and nutrient loss and has been shown to reduce food production related carbon emissions by up to 73%, few commercial aquaponics projects in the EU and UK have been successful. Key barriers to commercial success are insufficient initial investment, an uncertain and complex regulatory environment, and the lack of projects operating on a large scale able to demonstrate profitability. In this paper, we use the UK as a case study to discuss the legal and economic barriers to the success of commercial aquaponics in the EU. We also propose three policies: (1) making aquaponics eligible for the new system of Environmental Land Management grants; (2) making aquaponics eligible for organic certification; and (3) clarifying and streamlining the aquaponics licence application process. The UK’s departure from the EU presents a unique opportunity to review agricultural regulations and subsidies, which in turn could provide evidence that similar reforms are needed in the EU.

Analyzing the barriers for aquaponics adoption using integrated BWM and fuzzy DEMATEL approach in Indian context

“…This proves to be a significant barrier in India due to lack of knowledge and awareness among various stakeholders, especially farmers and extension workers. Studies conducted even in developed counties such as Canada and UK showed that there is lack of knowledge and expertise and it serves as a significant barrier to implementation of aquaponics (Matthews 2017 ; Cammies 2021 ). Although highly qualified people are involved in aquaponics in European countries as it is evident from a survey conducted in Europe on current aquaponics systems showed that 91.7% of the people involved in aquaponics hold at least post-graduate degree (Villarroel et al 2016 ).…”

Assessing the Different Economic Feasibility Scenarios of a Hydroponic Tomato Greenhouse Farm: A Case Study from Western Greece

“…So, it is clear that the adoption of HF is matter of policy-making and correctly ranking potential investments within the new CAP strategic plan. In this framework [51] proposed three alternative schemes for supporting hydroponics in the form of aquaponics (hydroponics and aquaculture combined) in the UK.…”

“…As part of the Horizon Europe program 2021-2027, the EU will provide 9 billion for research and innovation, including in the area of Natural Resources, Environment and Agriculture, which can prompt the development of hydroponic technologies [52] and increase knowledge and understanding about the barriers to adopt [51]. In addition, an important research need could be the development of varieties that pertain to this cultivation method in Greece and also to resolve issues with regards to waterborne diseases.…”

Causal Relations of Upscaled Urban Aquaponics and the Food-Water-Energy Nexus—A Berlin Case Study

“…An external perspective may also be helpful, e.g., regulations on AP in the UK should be monitored and positive developments adopted in the EU [127]. Urban AP supports the circular city concept but competes with other uses for limited space.…”