Renewable energy significantly reduces carbon emissions in whiteleg shrimp farming

According to the Agency of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, China - the world's largest seafood producer - has conducted the first study assessing the carbon footprint of whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) farming in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS). The results indicate that this system has the potential to reduce emissions when powered by renewable energy and optimized for farming efficiency.

The study was carried out at four shrimp farms in Guangdong province, using a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach that tracked the process from input to the harvest of market-sized shrimp. The recorded carbon footprint ranged from 13.8 to 14.9 tons of CO₂ equivalent per ton of shrimp produced.

Electricity accounted for the largest share of emissions (over 50%), followed by biological emissions from shrimp respiration, feed, and construction materials. Notably, farms using solar energy were able to reduce emissions by up to 92% compared to those using coal-generated electricity.

According to the researchers, biological emissions could serve as indicators of growth performance and farm management efficiency. In addition, infrastructure plays a significant role in total emissions, particularly in large-scale shrimp farming operations.

This study sheds light on both the challenges and opportunities for China’s shrimp industry to adopt high-tech, low-emission, and environmentally friendly production methods in the future.