Kaleka and ASC collaborate to expand sustainable aquaculture certification

Jakarta – Kaleka and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) are joining forces to promote sustainable aquaculture by expanding jurisdictional certification under the Aquaculture Improvement Program (AIP). This collaboration aims to help the aquaculture industry meet the mandatory sustainability standards necessary for entering developed markets, the groups said in a statement, September 12.

ASC CEO Chris Ninnes expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Kaleka to support farmers through an effective assurance mechanism that can lead to significant changes. He highlighted the project as part of ASC’s ongoing efforts to assist farmers in adopting environmentally and socially responsible practices.

Kaleka’s Executive Director, Bernadinus Steni Sugiarto, emphasized the broader market opportunities for certified farmers, including higher prices. “This cooperation provides more benefits for farmers and opens up wider market opportunities when their products are certified, with higher prices when their products are certified. We want to encourage more farmers to join the certification process through a jurisdictional approach, including those who have never dealt with certification standards before,” he explained. The partnership will focus on the potential of Seruyan Regency, a region with 66 rivers, seven lakes, and direct access to the sea, utilising 10,000 hectares of land for aquaculture.

The collaboration was officially launched on September 3 with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the Global Shrimp Forum in Utrecht, Netherlands. The MoU marks the beginning of jurisdictional certification implementation, ensuring sustainability principles are followed at every production stage.

The project also emphasises certification beyond feed management, aligning with national social and environmental responsibility standards. “We believe this cooperation will have a major positive impact on environmental sustainability and the welfare of local communities in Seruyan Regency,” Steni added.

ASC, known for setting global standards in sustainable aquaculture, currently certifies 24.6% of aquaculture products in South Asia, including 14 farming sites in Indonesia. (nsh)

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