Translating Environmental Potential to Economic Reality: Assessment of Commercial Aquaponics through Sustainability Transitions Theory

Erin Kelly Horn, Alyssa Joyce, Rubel Biswas Chowdhury, Silvio Caputo, Brent Jacobs, Mari Winkler and Gundula Proksch ()
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Erin Kelly Horn: University of Washington
Alyssa Joyce: Gothenburg University
Rubel Biswas Chowdhury: Deakin University
Silvio Caputo: Kent School of Architecture and Planning, Marlowe Building
Brent Jacobs: Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney
Mari Winkler: University of Washington
Gundula Proksch: University of Washington

Circular Economy and Sustainability, 2024, vol. 4, issue 1, 523-554

Abstract: Abstract Despite popular interest and recent industry growth, commercial-scale aquaponics still faces economic and regulatory barriers primarily resulting from political and economic systems which insufficiently address pressing environmental challenges. The sustainability potential of aquaponic food production can help address and overcome such challenges while contributing to the broader development of circular economy and sustainable development of food systems. In response to the current counterproductive gap between potential applications and industry development, the interdisciplinary team of authors identifies pathways to translate the environmental potential of commercial aquaponics into economic success through a sustainability transition theory lens. To evaluate the industry’s current state-of-the-art, drivers, barriers, and future potential, interview data from 25 North American producers collected in 2021, literature, and policy are analyzed through a Technological Innovation System (TIS) assessment within a Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) approach. This supports the consideration of pathways for industry development of aquaponics as an aspect of circular economy within a dynamic sustainable development context. These pathways for action include (1.) advancing clear standards and policies for aquaponics as part of a circular economy, increasing funding and incentives, and reducing support and subsidies for competing unsustainable food production; (2.) developing and promoting cost-effective technologies; and (3.) bolstering consumer preferences for sustainable and healthy food sources.

Keywords: Commercial aquaponics; Circular economy (CE); Technological Innovation System (TIS); Multi-Level Perspective (MLP); Sustainability transition pathways; Controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s43615-023-00291-0

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