Towards Safe and Effective Use of Chemicals in Coastal Aquaculture

Chemicals used within the aquaculture industry are identified and, for each chemical, a brief summary of information is provided, when available, on its intended purpose, scale of application, the aquacultural sectors and geographic locations of principal use and potential impacts on the environment and human health. Environmental issues arising from the properties of aquacultural chemicals are discussed. The use of most chemicals in aquaculture, if carried out properly, can be regarded as wholly beneficial with no attendant adverse environmental effects or increased risks to the health of aquacultural workers. Concerns appear warranted, however, regarding the over-use and misuse of certain chemicals for which proper risk assessments with respect to the marine environment have not been conducted. A further legitimate concern and a barrier to conducting an exhaustive review of these practices is the lack of availability of quantitative data on contemporary chemical use in the aquaculture industry. The viability of contemporary aquaculture is contingent on the use of chemicals. Accordingly, while the overriding consideration should be minimizing the quantities of chemicals applied, most current uses of chemicals are essential. Recognising that chemotherapeutants and pesticides in current use are of varying effectiveness and hazard, recommendations are provided to promote the safe and effective use of chemicals in coastal aquaculture. Governmental authorities, the scientific community and the aquacultural and pharmaceutical industries all have important roles to play to ensure that chemical use is consistent with protection of environmental quality and human health. In particular, mechanisms need to be put in place and enforced for the registration and control of aquacultural chemicals to protect the environment and human health and to ensure the sustainable growth of the aquaculture industry.