Last month, our Atlas for Values-Based Aquaculture project’s core team gathered in Baltimore to map out our next steps.

Atlas is a multi-year initiative to build a living resource that helps values-based aquaculture producers, chefs, scientists, lawmakers, and creatives collaborate, share knowledge, and grow aquaculture in ways that respect people and planet. Packed with hands-on guidance, collaboration opportunities, policy resources, and media toolkits, Atlas will serve as a roadmap for both current and aspiring aquaculture and mariculture producers, strengthening connections and equipping them with essential tools.

At the heart of Atlas are our 8 Principles of Values-Based Aquaculture. They include food, stewardship, community-driven approaches, equitable access, fair supply chains and economic equity, place-based knowledge, public ownership of public resources, and accountability — along with a vital focus on racial equity.

As Campaign Director for Don’t Cage Our Oceans, a project of NAMA, I’m thrilled to be part of this ongoing effort to map values-driven aquaculture across the U.S. It’s a massive undertaking, but luckily we are building on the blueprint from NAMA’s Aquaculture Visioning Project with a clear mission.

Because the Atlas is designed to evolve with the needs of the field, we’re eager for input from everyone invested in the future of values-based aquaculture.

Do you manage or work with an aquaculture operation that aligns with our 8 Principles or are you involved with other aspects of values-driven aquaculture? We’d love to include your project in the Atlas. Share your story with us at info@aquacultureatlas.org! 

-Andrianna Natsoulas

Image: Members of the Atlas Steering Committee at their meeting in Baltimore, MD.