Aquamind is working with a wide selection of issues in the seafood sector. The following list contains examples on the assignments we have solved.
Communication regarding Fisheries policy
Aquamind has been working with the developing and communication of the Danish proposal for the new Fisheries policy in the EU. We succeeded in setting the agenda regarding full catch accountability and CCTV monitoring. BBC, Times, Frankfurter Allgemeine, Wall Street Journal and a number of other international media made presentations of the Danish proposal”.
SIF and Traceability
Aquamind has been working with the development of the SIF-project, a project on traceability from catch to consumer. Aquamind is still working with SIF and we expect to contribute to the dissemination of SIF to other European countries. Aquamind is convinced that traceability and increased transparency will provide an important competitive edge in the future.
Fuel consumption
The development of trawl gear with a markedly reduced fuel consumption. By using the latest technology and materials we have lowered the consumption of fuel by 40% per kilo fish, caught in the cod-fishery off Bornholm. The project resulted in exporting of pelagic trawl doors from Thyborøn Skibssmedje to the Polish cod-fishery. Fuel is by far the largest expense in trawl fishing. The trawl net is the primary cause of the great drag and thus the fuel consumption. Despite this fact only little focus has been given to decreasing the drag by using lighter materials, with similar durability and strength.
Seabed-Friendly Trawlfishing
By using pelagic trawl doors in bottom trawlfishing we have succeeded in creating a concept for trawlfishing, which reduces the impact on the seabed dramatically. Aquamind is testing the effects on this new type of fishery on the Dogger Bank. We expect to contribute to secure the sandeel fishery in Natura 2000 areas. Aquamind has proven that trawl fishing with less seabed contact can be performed without a decrease in the catch.
Discard
Aquamind is working on solutions for the implementation of the EU discard ban. How the accidental catch can be reduced by technical solutions and proper implementation of result based management as the incentive driver for a sustainable fishery. In addition to this, we are working on an analysis of how fish, which are not accounted for, are handled on the vessels as well as in port. The discard ban presents a considerable challenges and valuable opportunities for EU fishermen. If handled the right way, we expect an increase in earnings and reduced cost due to increased access to hitherto non-used catch fractions and to removal of micro management which to-day is a considerable cost to fishermen.
Outsourcing fish processing
Aquamind has been working with outsourcing of fish processing and net manufacturers abroad. We have successfully moved net manufacturers from Denmark to Lithuania and kick started filet factories in Nigeria.
Market research: Aquamind has participated in market surveys regarding cold water prawns, seabass, trouts and other species on the European and Asian market. Aquamind has a huge network of commercial contacts in the business and as a result of that always updated on the latest news.