It is known that if Icelanders are to handle a similar proportion of farmed fish products as we have obtained, it can be estimated that two hundred times as much aquaculture production is needed in this country. Global demand for aquaculture products, food originating in either fresh water or salty sea is expected to increase globally. The increased demand will drive increased production, new solutions and better utilization.
Research on the environmental impact of food value chains is and will be important in the future, as with an ever-increasing population, the strain on the earth's resources and the growing environmental impact, radical changes and new approaches to production methods are needed.
Birgir Örn Smárason at Matís has started doctoral studies at the University of Iceland in the field of environmental and resource studies. Birgir's work facilities are in Matís' office in Akureyri in Borgir við Norðurslóð, where emphasis is placed on the sustainable utilization of Arctic resources. Birgir's doctoral studies are in the spirit of the recent framework agreement between Matís and the University of Akureyri, especially on integrating research and development projects in the field of sustainable resource utilization.
The doctoral program aims to analyze the possibility of using new raw materials in fish feed from other types of organic matter than traditional use. Therefore, the environmental impact of the value chain of fisheries and aquaculture will be examined with a life cycle analysis in terms of resource use in comparison with other food production. The analysis of these value chains will be twofold, because with new ideas and solutions in the utilization of resources, it is necessary to have a measurable comparison to assess the effect of changes in the value chains. The development and possibilities of biomaterials in feed will be analyzed based on the utilization of resources, the composition of feed and biology and nutrition, as well as the development of new types of feed.
One of the key factors for prosperity in the future is research and development in the bioeconomy. The bioeconomy refers to the use of limited resources, or non-renewable resources, being minimized or replaced by the use of renewable resources, sustainable living and production where materials and energy are renewed as fast as we use them. Strengthening the global bioeconomy has positive consequences, such as economic growth and job creation in rural areas, reduced use and demand for fossil fuels, improved food security and improved economic and environmental sustainability of primary production and production companies, as well as better ensuring the continued existence of the environment.
For further information Arnljótur Bjarki Bergsson, division manager of Resources and Products at Matís.