Atlantic Sapphire achieves ASC certification

Florida-based salmon farming company Atlantic Sapphire has become the first land-based salmon farmer in the USA to achieve ASC certification, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council has announced.

The company, which operates the largest recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) for salmon in the world, earned the certification by meeting the strict requirements of ASC’s existing Salmon Standard as well its RAS module. This focused on "key areas of impact around water use, water quality and water and waste disposal as well as energy consumption and emissions", the ASC said, announcing the certification, and included Atlantic Sapphire committing to conduct a new biodiversity impact assessment.

“We are proud to be the first ASC certified salmon farm in the United States. This milestone underscores our commitment to minimizing environmental impact, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare and driving the future of responsible seafood production,” said Atlantic Sapphire CEO Pedro Courard in a press release.

"By achieving ASC certification, we strengthen our belief that innovative and sustainable aquaculture practices can play a critical role in safeguarding the environment while supporting the growing global population. We’re excited to work together to promote the future of fish farming as one of the world’s most sophisticated, efficient and responsible RAS salmon producers," Courard added.

Meghan Russell, Senior Market Development Manager for ASC North America, noted the growing role of RAS in aquaculture worldwide. “RAS has been a growing trend in the aquaculture industry and ASC is keenly aware of the benefits that this unique method of farming can offer when done responsibly, including lower water consumption and greater environmental controls."

"As North Americans’ appetite for ASC’s sea green label continues expanding, we look forward to seeing Atlantic Sapphire’s Bluehouse Salmon brand grow in the U.S. market," she added.