Challenges and innovative solutions in sustainable aquaculture: How can it contribute to food security and environmental protection

Sustainable aquaculture presents a dual opportunity to meet the nutritional needs of a growing population while alleviating pressure on fragile marine ecosystems. However, realizing this potential requires navigating significant challenges, including pollution, environmental degradation, disease management, resource efficiency, and lack of regulations. In addition, these challenges will be maximized with the need to expand aquaculture by nearly 50% by 2030 to meet increasing global protein needs. Therefore, careful management must be implemented to reduce the potential environmental risk. There are several innovative solutions that could drive sustainable aquaculture growth, including integrated aquaculture systems that can foster efficiency, resource optimization, and resilience. Alternative feedstuff, especially fishmeal alternatives such as plant protein mixtures, insect meal, and single cell protein. In addition, technology driven solutions including smart systems, precision aquaculture, and the adoption of sustainable practices can help balance the aquaculture growth with environmental conservation. Finaly, policymakers and industry stakeholders must prioritize best practices, certification schemes, and technological innovations to ensure that aquaculture’s expansion aligns with planetary environmental health objectives. In this review challenges and promising solutions for more sustainable aquaculture will be deeply discussed.