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The Circular Economy in Aquaculture and Fisheries: Enhancing Sustainability and Food Security

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  • Samuel Ayeh Osei

    (Shanghai Ocean University, College of Marine Living Resource Sciences and Management)

  • Christian Larbi Ayisi

    (University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Department of Water Resources and Aquaculture Management, School of Sustainable Development)

  • Grace Afumwaa Boamah

    (University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Department of Water Resources and Aquaculture Management, School of Sustainable Development)

  • Gertrude Dzifa Mensah

    (University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Department of Water Resources and Aquaculture Management, School of Sustainable Development)

Abstract

Fisheries and aquaculture are essential to global food security, economic growth and environmental sustainability, with rising seafood demand driven by population growth. The circular economy (CE) offers a transformative approach to enhancing sustainability and resilience in these sectors by promoting waste reduction, resource efficiency and environmental regeneration, moving beyond the traditional "take, make, dispose" model. This review examines the application of CE in aquaculture and fisheries, focusing on integrating byproducts into value chains, implementing closed-loop production systems and optimizing processes to minimize waste and resource use. The review identifies promising practices such as fish waste valorization for bioenergy and fertilizer, recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), and integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) as leading innovations. However, major gaps persist in scaling these practices, particularly in developing countries, due to technological limitations, regulatory barriers and inconsistent economic incentives. Economic, technological, and policy challenges that hinder broader CE adoption are critically discussed, alongside potential pathways for advancement. The findings suggest that targeted policy support, investment in scalable technologies and the development of circular business models are crucial to mainstreaming CE principles in the sector. By informing policymakers, industry stakeholders and researchers, this review underscores how circular economy strategies can drive sustainable transformation in global aquaculture and fisheries.

Suggested Citation

  • Samuel Ayeh Osei & Christian Larbi Ayisi & Grace Afumwaa Boamah & Gertrude Dzifa Mensah, 2025. "The Circular Economy in Aquaculture and Fisheries: Enhancing Sustainability and Food Security," Circular Economy and Sustainability, Springer, vol. 5(5), pages 4565-4614, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:circec:v:5:y:2025:i:5:d:10.1007_s43615-025-00632-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s43615-025-00632-1
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