BioMar backs initiative to advance women in aquaculture and develop blue foods in the Caribbean

Initiative to advance women in aquaculture and transform Caribbean into ‘blue foods powerhouse’

BioMar, a global leader in sustainable aquaculture feeds, has announced the support of Women in Caribbean Aquaculture (WiCA) and the extended organization of the Caribbean Aquaculture Network (CAN). Both organizations were recently formed to support collaboration in the region and ensure the responsible expansion of aquaculture and blue food.

The Caribbean aquaculture industry, although relatively underdeveloped, is ideally situated next to North America, which represents one of the biggest seafood markets in the world. The tropical waters of the region can support a large variety of blue foods; however, to grow in the region, knowledge and infrastructure are required.

Advanced education, especially for women, is a challenge in the Caribbean region and many women seeking to become marine scientists leave for education opportunities in North America and Europe. Many of these women are now scattered around the world but still hold a desire to bring their knowledge home to help make this area into a “blue foods powerhouse.”

“There is so much potential in the Caribbean for sustainable aquaculture, and if we unite as an industry, driven by strong women and others from this region, I believe there is nothing we can’t achieve together,” said Juli-Anne Russo, founder of both WiCA and the Caribbean Aquaculture Network.

Besides initial establishment funds to get WiCA and CAN up and running, BioMar will be promoting the organization and its members, including sponsoring their attendance at various international aquaculture events. BioMar will also be providing internal expertise through collaboration and knowledge sharing, and Katherine Bryar BioMar’s Global Marketing Director will sit on the organization’s Board.

“BioMar is deeply proud to support this amazing group of talented women from the Caribbean,” said Bryar. “They are all driven by a deep passion for the marine environment, improving their countries and giving back to their communities. We at BioMar intend to support them on their vital journey.”

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