Norwegian aquaculture continues to top the charts of the most sustainable animal protein production

The Coller FAIRR Index, which ranks the world’s most sustainable animal protein producers, has crowned three Norwegian aquaculture companies at the top of the table.

Of just four companies identified by the index as being ‘low risk’ against a number of factors demonstrative of sustainability, three are Norwegian aquaculture producers. Mowi, the world’s largest salmon farmer, once again took the top spot on the table, followed by Greig Seafood in at number two, and Lerøy Seafood coming in at number four. All have held these positions following the rankings in 2021. In addition, Salmar ASA claims the 10th place in the ranking.

As the world’s only comprehensive assessment of animal proteins, the index considers a variety of factors contributing to a protein’s overall score; from greenhouse gas emissions, water use, biodiversity, animal welfare and antibiotic use, right through to working conditions and governance.

“Norwegian aquaculture remains the leading industry for sustainable protein producers globally. It’s testament to the relentless hard work and commitment from these leading companies and the wider industry that once again we are seeing this recognised by the Coller FAIRR Index”, Christian Chramer, CEO of the Norwegian Seafood Council, says.

Striving to improve

“Being a responsible seafood nation means looking after our precious resources for now and for the future. Taking responsibility for looking after our planet by ensuring the seafood we produce has the lowest possible impact that it can is at the heart of everything we strive for. Our holistic, ecosystem-based approach to fisheries and aquaculture management, and strict regulations that protect the species in our waters is key to this.

“We continue to recognise that transparency of practices is of the utmost importance and take pride in knowing that by leading the way with our sustainable practices we are helping to inspire innovation in this field, so that the next generation can inherit a healthy seafood industry too.”

Proud producers aiming to continue streak

Mowi’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Catarina Martins, commented on the rankings: “Our ultimate goal is to unlock the potential of the ocean to produce more food for a growing world population in a way that respects our planet, so we are extremely proud to be named the most sustainable protein producer and see our hard work recognised once again.

FAIRR’s methodology continues to evolve, and companies are expected to report more and show progress on more metrics than when the rating started 5 years ago, so it is becoming increasingly harder to be on ranked on the top. Three Norwegian salmon companies are amongst the top 4 from all the 60 companies benchmarked. This reinforces the recognition of Norwegian salmon farming as frontrunners on sustainability.”

“This ranking reflects the care with which we operate, as well as the considerable attention and support from our employees in all regions in which we farm”, explains Grieg Seafood CEO, Andreas Kvame. He continues: “We need a more sustainable global food system – and aquaculture has an important role to play. However, we are not satisfied with status quo. We continuously work to reduce our impact on nature and improve by investing in new technologies, innovation and new farming practices.”

Henning Beltestad, CEO of Lerøy Seafood Group, said: “We work continuously and targeted towards improving sustainability across our value chain. It is good to see our efforts in this area being noticed and that Lerøy as a company and the industry once again ranks among the best in this type of index. Our target is to score even higher next year.”

Geir Ove Ystmark, CEO of the Norwegian Seafood Federation industry organisation, said: "We are very proud to see that the Norwegian companies hold the top spots in this important index. Sustainability is at the core of the Norwegian seafood industry. I am sure the industry will continue to innovate and find even better solutions to today's challenges."

The index can be viewed by visiting: https://www.fairr.org/index/