Title:
Sustainable Aquaculture within Environmental Limits: Environmental Carrying Capacity Assessment for Spatial Aquaculture Areas in Quang Ninh (Vietnam)

Authors:
Thinh An Nguyen, Hai Anh Pham*, Quynh Trang Thi Phan, Diep Ngoc Nguyen, Viet Nam

Abstract:

Sustainable aquaculture is vital for the aquaculture industry's development. This study focuses on calculating and evaluating the environmental carrying capacity (ECC) of six aquaculture areas within three nautical miles off the coast of Quang Ninh province, Vietnam. We employ the ECC calculation formula that needs collecting and analyzing water samples combined with in-depth interviews with aquaculture households to gather data. The results provide scientific insights for guiding sustainable aquaculture practices, environmental protection, and productivity enhancement. Our findings reveal that Quang Yen aquaculture area boasts the largest potential for aquaculture development, whereas Ha Long City has the smallest potential. To optimize carrying capacity while safeguarding environmental quality, we propose solutions for sustainable aquaculture development. Firstly, policymakers should prioritize centralized planning that considers overall district planning and assesses environmental carrying capacity to ensure sustainable aquaculture practices. Secondly, policymakers must allocate each area to a single farming zone while reserving space for other economic sectors. Thirdly, it is essential to foster collaboration between state management, local government, and coastal communities in Quang Ninh province to enhance aquaculture efficiency while maintaining environmental sustainability. Finally, policymakers should incentivize the adoption of green technologies to promote environmental sustainability in aquaculture operations.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51505/IJEBMR.2024.8907