The Ultfarms team participated at the workshop on the Maripark concept focused on innovative solutions to marine spatial challenges. ULTFARMS’ focus on low-trophic aquaculture (LTA) systems in offshore wind farms (OWFs) aligns seamlessly with the Maripark vision of creating integrated marine spaces that serve ecological, economic, and societal goals.
During the session, the Maripark concept—introduced by the eMSP project—emphasized multi-use solutions for offshore wind and aquaculture, reflecting ULTFARMS’ mission to optimize LTA production in OWFs across the North and Baltic Seas. The Maripark approach, like our pilots in locations such as Belwind and Anholt, relies on:
– Ecosystem-based design: Ensuring environmental sustainability as a foundation for multi-use activities.
– Collaborative governance frameworks: Building on stakeholder co-management models central to ULTFARMS.
– Data-driven decision-making: Leveraging platforms like ULTFARMS’ integrated monitoring system to inform sustainable practices.
Project Octopus, with its modular ship concept, and the North-C-Neutral Toolkit, which integrates spatial planning and environmental data, resonate with ULTFARMS’ goals of efficient resource use and stakeholder collaboration.
In a breakout session, participants tackled scenarios like integrating renewable energy with LTA systems—an area where ULTFARMS is already making strides by co-locating seaweed, mussel, and oyster farming with OWFs. Key insights included the need for harmonized permitting systems and economically viable second-use applications, both of which underpin the feasibility of multi-use models like Mariparks.
Takeaway: The ULTFARMS team was able to share insights and develop solutions to further scale the innovative solutions being developed in our pilots, offering scalable, co-managed solutions for maximizing the use of marine resources while restoring ecosystems.
