The humble mussel, often overlooked in the seafood aisle, is quietly revolutionizing the aquaculture industry. Not only are mussels delicious and nutritious, but they are emerging as champions of sustainable seafood, offering a glimmer of hope for a healthier planet. Recent data paints a compelling picture of their positive impact, and forward-thinking companies are leading the charge in responsible mussel farming.

Mussels are filter feeders, meaning they naturally clean the water around them. This remarkable ability contributes to improved water quality and a healthier marine environment. Unlike other aquaculture forms, mussel farming requires no added feed, as they derive their nutrients from the surrounding water column. This eliminates the environmental concerns associated with feed production and potential pollution.

Furthermore, mussel farms create habitat for other marine species, acting as artificial reefs that enhance biodiversity. They provide shelter and breeding grounds, contributing to a thriving ecosystem. Studies have shown that mussel farms can increase the abundance and diversity of marine life in their vicinity.

But the sustainability story doesn’t end there. Mussel farming has a remarkably low carbon footprint compared to other protein sources. Their efficient growth and minimal input requirements make them a climate-friendly choice. As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their food choices, mussels are gaining popularity as a sustainable and delicious alternative.

The global mussel market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable seafood. This surge in interest has spurred innovation in mussel farming techniques, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact and maximizing efficiency. Researchers are exploring new methods for culturing mussels, including integrated multi-trophic aquaculture, where mussels are grown alongside other species, creating a balanced and sustainable ecosystem.

However, not all mussel farming practices are created equal. It’s crucial to support producers who prioritize environmental responsibility and social accountability. Third-party certifications, like Friend of the Sea, play a vital role in ensuring that mussels are farmed sustainably.

Spotlight on Amegrove: A Leader in Sustainable Mussel Farming

One company leading the way in responsible mussel aquaculture is Amegrove. They have achieved Friend of the Sea certification, a testament to their unwavering commitment to sustainable practices.

Amegrove’s mussels have earned this prestigious certification due to several key factors:

1. They maintain strict water quality parameters.
2. Their farming methods minimize impact on seabed and surrounding habitats.
3. They use responsibly sourced mussel seed.
4. They uphold fair labor practices and contribute to the local economy.

These practices align perfectly with Friend of the Sea’s requirements for sustainable aquaculture, which include evaluating impacts on water quality, habitat preservation, responsible feed sourcing, and social responsibility.

“We are thrilled to award Friend of the Sea certification to Amegrove,” said Paolo Bray, Director of Friend of the Sea. “Their dedication to sustainable aquaculture is truly commendable. They serve as an excellent example for the industry, showcasing how high-quality seafood can be produced while respecting the environment and local communities.”

Esteban Fernandez Casal, presidente at Amegrove, added:
“This certification is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication to sustainable practices. We believe that responsible aquaculture is essential for our oceans’ health and the seafood industry’s future. We are proud to partner with Friend of the Sea in promoting environmentally and socially responsible seafood choices.”

By choosing Friend of the Sea certified mussels from companies like Amegrove, consumers can support responsible aquaculture practices and contribute to a healthier planet. Mussels offer a delicious and sustainable seafood option, proving that we can enjoy the ocean’s bounty while protecting its delicate ecosystems.

Author Credit: Originally published by Friend of the Sea – www.friendofthesea.org

About Friend of the Sea

www.friendofthesea.org

Friend of the Sea is a project of the World Sustainability Organization (WSO), offering international certification for sustainable seafood and aquaculture. Products certified meet strict environmental and social responsibility criteria, verified through independent audits.

Over 1,000 companies across 70+ countries are certified by Friend of the Sea. The program also covers services such as sustainable restaurants, seaweed, UV creams, whale watching operators, ornamental fish, and more. Friend of the Sea actively runs conservation campaigns to protect endangered species and habitats.

About Amegrove

Amegrove is a company dedicated to producing high-quality mussels through sustainable aquaculture practices. It is committed to minimizing environmental impact and contributing to the local community.

For more information, visit their official website: Amegrove

This article is written by Neil Nachbar.

Submissions will be on display at the Art League RI gallery from April 5-27; winning entries will be showcased at URI’s Graduate School of Oceanography thereafter

KINGSTON, R.I. – About 300 Rhode Island students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade entered the third biennial “Ocean View” student art competition, organized by the University of Rhode Island’s Graduate School of Oceanography (GSO).

All submissions will be displayed at the Art League RI gallery in Pawtucket, 80 Fountain Street, Suite 107A, from April 5-27. Three winners from each of the four age divisions will be announced at a ceremony at the gallery on Thursday, April 17 at 3 p.m. 

Students were required to submit a statement of no more than 100 words on the theme, “What does ‘The Ocean State’ mean to you?’” Their two-dimensional artwork was limited to 24 inches by 36 inches. Suggested art mediums included illustration, painting, mixed media and collage, and photography.

The judges were three professional artists: Janine Wong, Laurie Kaplowitz, and Ruth Clegg, who is also the president of the board of directors of Art League RI.

Wong takes a multidisciplinary approach when creating abstract prints, weaving together elements of art, craft, design, and architecture. Kaplowitz uses the human figure to explore nature and existence. Her art has been exhibited in galleries in Boston, Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, Miami, and San Francisco. Clegg’s art, which includes photography, video, printmaking, painting, and collage, has been displayed at the Providence Art Club, Bristol Museum of Art, Mystic Museum of Art, the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, Care New England, and the Smithsonian Graphic Art Collection.

“Art League RI is pleased to host the ‘Ocean View’ art competition with the URI Graduate School of Oceanography,” said Clegg. “We’re happy to encourage children to recognize the value of the ocean through the process of creating these works of art.”

After April 27, the 12 award-winning pieces of art will be showcased at GSO’s Ocean Science & Exploration Center. The winners will be invited to GSO for a reception on a date to be determined, where they will be presented their awards. The art will be displayed for at least a year, where they may be viewed by the public, students, staff, and faculty.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has been a cornerstone of ocean science, conservation, and economic stability in the U.S. for over 50 years. Today, NOAA Fisheries, the branch focused on managing and protecting marine resources, is absolutely essential to keeping our oceans healthy, our fisheries sustainable, and our coastal communities thriving.

These days, NOAA has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons, with major layoffs raising serious concerns about its future. The recent cuts have already disrupted essential operations, and if this trend continues, the consequences will be severe. As Robert Vandermark, Executive Director of the Marine Fish Conservation Network, puts it, “U.S. fisheries generate approximately 2.3 million jobs and more than $470 billion to our economy. We need the fisheries experts and resources at NOAA to do the hard work of keeping our oceans healthy and our fisheries productive so that we can all benefit from them.” That’s a staggering number, and NOAA plays a huge role in making sure this industry remains viable. Without it, we risk destabilizing fisheries, threatening jobs, and undermining decades of progress in ocean conservation.

One of the most crucial things NOAA does is provide the science that keeps fisheries sustainable. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), also known as NOAA Fisheries, tracks fish populations and helps set responsible catch limits to prevent overfishing. This is critical, just a few decades ago, many fisheries were in serious trouble due to overfishing and poor management. Thanks to NOAA’s science-based approach, the U.S. now has some of the most sustainable fisheries in the world. Without NOAA’s stock assessments and data-driven policies, we could easily slide back into those dark days of depleted fish stocks and economic hardship. Erica Fuller of the Conservation Law Foundation warns, “A dismantled NOAA means efforts to protect fish populations, manage federal fisheries, and safeguard ecologically important habitat would grind to a halt, putting marine ecosystems and livelihoods at risk.”

NOAA is also essential for keeping fishermen safe. Commercial and recreational fishermen alike depend on NOAA’s accurate weather forecasts to decide when and where to fish. Ocean conditions can change in an instant, and without reliable forecasts, fishing trips could turn deadly. Linda Behnken, Executive Director of the Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association, explains, “Our fishermen rely on timely and accurate weather data for safety and trip planning; we rely on comprehensive resource surveys and sound science as the basis for fisheries management.” When you’re out on the water, that kind of information isn’t just useful—it’s lifesaving.

Beyond science and safety, NOAA is deeply woven into the economies of coastal communities. Fishermen, seafood processors, and local businesses all rely on NOAA to keep fisheries running smoothly. “NOAA’s contribution to our sport and commercial fishermen is unparalleled,” says Bob Rees, Executive Director of the Northwest Guides and Anglers Association. “Stock assessments enable access to abundant fish, while protecting declining populations. NOAA’s weather forecasts enable access to our fishery resources when seas are safe.” Without NOAA, the entire system that supports American seafood, from the ocean to the dinner table, would be at risk.

Of course, the fishing industry faces plenty of challenges beyond government cuts. Climate change, habitat destruction, and market fluctuations are making it harder for fishermen to earn a living. NOAA helps the industry adapt by providing economic and environmental data that allow policymakers to make smart decisions. A recent NOAA report found that Alaska’s seafood industry suffered a $1.8 billion loss from 2022–2023, with profitability plunging by 50%. That’s not just bad news for Alaska, it had ripple effects across the country, leading to 38,000 lost jobs and a $4.3 billion hit to the national economy. Without NOAA’s ability to track and respond to these trends, the seafood industry will be left to navigate a shifting landscape blindfolded.

Another huge part of NOAA’s mission is conservation. By protecting marine habitats, regulating bycatch, and managing marine protected areas, NOAA helps ensure that fish populations remain healthy for generations to come. Michelle Stratton, Executive Director of the Alaska Marine Conservation Council, puts it bluntly: “It is undeniable that without NOAA’s efforts, we would face far more significant challenges in maintaining the health of our fisheries. Through stock assessments and well-established management systems, NOAA is a part of the delicately balanced framework necessary for sustainable fishing.”

NOAA’s work touches every part of the seafood industry, from fishery law enforcement to disaster response. That’s why the recent layoffs and potential future cuts are so alarming. As Molly Masterton of the Natural Resources Defense Council warns, “Moves to slash and dismantle NOAA will harm our fishing communities, put ocean ecosystems at further risk, and undermine our readiness as a nation in the face of natural disasters.” The consequences won’t just affect fishermen, they will ripple through local economies, seafood markets, and even the plates of everyday consumers.

At SEVENSEAS, we’re doing everything we can to support science, conservation, fishing communities, and the current, former, and future employees of NOAA. This agency plays an irreplaceable role in the effort to create a more sustainable fishing industry and protect our oceans’ health. While we cannot control these changes, we can support the people and the movement by continuing our work. We, as a community, need to remain united in our shared goal of biodiversity conservation and protecting ecosystems- especially when institutions we relied on are no longer able to.

Standing strong for science,

Giacomo Abrusci, Founder & Executive Director

To learn some more about how NOAA helps fisheries check out this Ocean Conservancy Fact Sheet.  Special thanks to the Marine Fish Conservation Network.

PHOTO CAPTIONS: Photo at Top: NOAA Ship DELAWARE II in the sunset of its career. This ship was decommissioned in September 2012.