The effects of, and enforcement measures needed to reduce antibiotic use in aquaculture remains limited in many regulat ory frameworks and within the research community. O pen aquaculture production systems are intimately interconnected to their surrounding environments which increases the risk of antimicrobial resistance and contamination . Semi- closed and closed production systems contribute to this issue as well as water, medicated feed, fertilizers, wastes and feed all can be sources of antibiotic resistant genes. As a result, it is pivotal for the aquaculture industry to know about the potential risks of antibiotic misuse and consider pre-emptive or alternative measures to antibiotic treatments. The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) acknowledges the critical role of antibiotics in fish farming for disease management while recognizing the concomitant risks including antibiotic resistance and environmental contamination among others.
Antimicrobial resistance is an issue for human, animal and environmental health. Understanding these interlinkages and building collaborations between different stakeholders to promote sustainable health outcomes is at the core of the One Health approach. Central to ASC’s mission is the advocacy for responsible antibiotic use in aquaculture, underpinned by stringent standards and best practices. The ASC’s standards incorporate antibiotic sampling protocols, ensuring regular monitoring of fish and environmental samples to assure compliance within the scheme. In this presentation, we explore the operations of the ASC regarding the collection of data on antibiotic use from farmers. Additionally, we will highlight our efforts to promote better animal welfare management to ultimately reduce the need for antibiotic treatments. Our vision is centred around the One Health approach where sustainability, human- and animal welfare, and environmental stewardship take precedence in aquaculture operations. ASC is committed to cultivating a global aquaculture sector that prioritizes responsible antibiotic use practices, minimizes environmental impact, and heightens the health and welfare standards of farmed fish. ASC underlines collaborative efforts with industry stakeholders, researchers, governments, and non-governmental organizations to forge a sustainable and resilient aquaculture sector, meeting the needs of present and future generations while safeguarding aquatic ecosystems and the communities reliant upon them.