FISH: series of free online events to celebrate and explore the innovation and potential of Scotland’s aquaculture sector – THE DUMBARTON DEMOCRAT
Building on the success of their first event in November 2020, ‘A Meeting of Minds 2’ will take place on Zoom on Thursday 29 April 2021 from 10.00 to 11.30 – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-meeting-of-minds-2-tickets-151361001831
Where the first event looked at the potential for growth in different areas of aquaculture, including the West Coast and Oban, A Meeting of Minds 2’ will take a closer look at innovation in the industry and explore the potential of technology to drive innovation and sustainability.
‘A Meeting of Minds 2’ will bring together leading businesses and organisations involved in Scotland’s aquaculture industry.
The packed session will include presentations from Sarah Riddle, the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre’s director of Business Engagement, John MacLellan from the Fort William Underwater Trials Centre, Carol-Ann Adams, Business Engagement executive for Interface in the Highland and Islands, John Jones and Grant Leslie of SEM World, Scott Nolan, MOWI’s processing director, and Hamish Macdonell, head of Strategic Engagement for The Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation.
Oban on the West Coast is one of the main centres for aquaculture in Scotland.
They will share ideas, inspiration and insights into key areas for driving innovation and sustainability in the sector.
Aquaculture in Scotland is diverse, from the farming of Atlantic salmon and other marine and freshwater fin fish species, to the production of mussels, oysters and scallops, to the harvesting of seaweed. The sectors estimated to contribute £1.8 billion annually to the Scottish economy and employs over 8,800 people, many in rural communities.
It is an industry that sustains the economic and social fabric of the Highlands and Islands and is an anchor industry that keeps communities and career prospects alive in remote and rural areas.
Frazer Coupland, CEO of Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, is excited about the event.
He said: “There is so much great innovation happening in the aquaculture industry – from investment in robotics for fish processing, to new ways of utilising subsea vehicles and rethinking processes to contribute to a sustainable circular economy. These are exciting times for the industry, and we’re delighted to present this event with SAIC to highlight innovation and opportunities across this vital sector.”
To book your free place on A Meeting of Minds 2 on Thursday 29 April 2021 at 10:00, please go to www.lochaberchamber.co.uk/events or search for ‘A Meeting of Minds 2’ on https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.