The implementation of circular bioeconomy principles in aquaculture is crucial for sustainable development, particularly in resource-limited regions such as La Guajira, Colombia. Based on recent research on intensive tilapia farming and zero-effluent circular bioeconomy approaches, as discussed by Zimmerman et al. (2023) with technologies like Biofloc, bio-RAS, and multitrophic systems, this study examines the feasibility of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) as an innovative and sustainable solution to enhance aquaculture productivity while reducing environmental impacts.
The integration of RAS with circular bioeconomy strategies allows for water use optimization, implementation of functional feeds that boost productivity, and efficient waste management in aquaculture systems within this arid region. Through local case studies (Riohacha and Fonseca) and an analysis of bioeconomic models, the benefits of RAS were evaluated in addressing challenges such as resource scarcity, economic efficiency, and social inclusion.
The results highlight the potential of RAS to reduce environmental footprints, improve food security, and promote resilient economic growth in La Guajira. This article proposes the large-scale adoption of bioeconomy principles in aquaculture, tailored to the environmental and socioeconomic conditions of La Guajira, offering insights that can be applied to other regions in Latin America.
Keywords: Circular bioeconomy, Recirculating Aquaculture Systems, sustainability, aquaculture, water management, tilapia