Key points
TL;DR Summary: Aquaculture’s Digital Evolution
As global seafood demand rises aquaculture must scale sustainably and remain compliant with changing regulations. Digital transformation is helping producers achieve this by improving efficiency resource management and decision-making through real-time data automation and advanced analytics.
Technologies like DCS MCCs cloud-based platforms and AI-powered maintenance tools enable more precise control lower operational costs and better animal welfare. Virtual and augmented reality also boost remote monitoring and training while cybersecurity becomes essential for NIS2 compliance.
Case studies like Sustainable Blue prove that digitalisation drives both sustainability and profitability. Starting small with scalable digital tools can future-proof operations and position producers for long-term success in the evolving protein market.
Aquaculture companies need to be more efficient and agile to address expansion, sustainability and legislation
As global demand for protein rises, the aquaculture industry must scale efficiently while maintaining sustainability and regulatory compliance. Aquaculture production continues to expand due to the growing demand for seafood and the limitations of wild fisheries. However, meeting these demands requires modernisation through digital technologies such as automation, IoT, and AI, as they optimise processes and reduce costs.
Operators will gain greater agility and adaptability from digitalisation, as it will allow them to respond much quicker to shifting market and customer demands. And this is driven, in part, by their ability to make more informed real-time decisions regarding production, resource allocation, and market trends, thanks to advanced data handling and analytics.
Why Digitalisation Matters in Aquaculture Production
A recent market research project, undertaken on behalf of Rockwell Automation, highlights the increasing adoption of automation in aquaculture. Companies are turning to digital solutions to remain competitive and address labour shortages. Indeed, the market for aquaculture automation systems, including those for recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and IoT/AI monitoring, is expected to reach significant levels.
Key Benefits of Aquaculture Digital Transformation
By integrating digital tools and software platforms, aquaculture producers benefit from:
- Real-time data collection and analytics for improved decision-making
- Automated control systems to enhance precision and consistency
- Optimised process design through simulation and modelling tools
- Streamlined daily operations, reducing overheads and boosting productivity
These digital tools enhance operational efficiency, improve animal welfare, and support sustainable practices through better monitoring and resource management.
“Operators will gain greater agility and adaptability from digitalisation, as it will allow them to respond much quicker to shifting market and customer demands.”
Digital Tools Transforming Food Protein Production
Food protein producers are increasingly leveraging:
- Distributed Control Systems (DCS): Improve control decisions across hatcheries, grow-out tanks and processing systems
- Motor Control Centres (MCCs): Simplify complex pumping systems, enhancing safety, reliability, and intelligence
- Cloud-based Asset Management Platforms: Enable remote monitoring, predictive analytics, and proactive maintenance
Software solutions, such as cloud-based asset management platforms help track and manage equipment performance, reducing unplanned downtime. Computerised maintenance management systems (CMMS), such as Rockwell Automation’s Fiix® platform leverages AI to support operators proactively maintain the reliability and efficiency of their equipment, extending its lifespan.
Additionally, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) applications are highly useful for on-site and remote monitoring of the hundreds of operational assets typical in a modern aquaculture plant.
To manage growing data volumes and complexity, advanced software solutions provide capabilities for tracking, versioning, updating, viewing, and remotely interrogating hardware and software. Platforms such as FactoryTalk® software suite offer cutting-edge design, secure remote interrogation, asset management, HMI deployment and design, data handling, and analytics.
“Sustainability can also be improved through the use of digital tools to monitor and manage environmental factors, minimise pollution, and promote responsible practices.”
From a cybersecurity perspective, operational technology (OT) cybersecurity strategies are crucial for compliance with the upcoming NIS2 directive. Implementing robust security measures ensures data protection and can be used proactively to boost uptime and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Digitalisation also enables virtualisation, allowing operators to interact with installations remotely through immersive VR and AR. These technologies enhance maintenance efficiency and provide real-time insights without requiring physical presence on-site.
Case Study: Sustainable Blue’s Digital Transformation Journey
Sustainable Blue, based in Nova Scotia, is a leading example of how digitalisation can enable scalable, ethical and sustainable aquaculture.
By adopting a fully integrated digital process control system, they achieved:
- Enhanced production scalability through phased rollout
- Reduced operational risks with automated safeguards
- Improved environmental outcomes and a cleaner production footprint
- Greater brand differentiation and stronger market appeal
Their journey highlights how end-to-end process automation supports both profitability and sustainability, proving that digitalisation is a vital tool for modern aquaculture.
“Those who invest strategically in digital transformation today will be the ones shaping sustainable food protein industry of tomorrow.”
Sustainability can also be improved through the use of digital tools to monitor and manage environmental factors, minimise pollution, and promote responsible practices.
Looking Ahead: The Digital Future of Aquaculture Production
Digital transformation is shaping the future of food protein production and aquaculture is no exception. As the industry continues to evolve, producers that integrate digital tools will be best positioned to achieve sustainable growth, while maintaining high-quality seafood to consumers.
Starting with small strategic digital investments builds trust and facilitates future scaling – a process made easier and more effective by using integrated hardware and software platforms designed for digital transformation. Those who invest strategically in digital transformation today will be the ones shaping sustainable food protein industry of tomorrow.
FAQs: Digital Transformation in Aquaculture
What are the key benefits of digitalising aquaculture operations?
Real-time decision-making improved efficiency better animal welfare and reduced costs through automation predictive maintenance and advanced data analytics
How does automation help with labour shortages in aquaculture?
Automated systems take over repetitive or manual tasks making it easier to maintain consistent operations with fewer staff
Which technologies are most useful in aquaculture digital transformation?
DCS MCCs cloud platforms like FactoryTalk AI-driven CMMS systems such as Fiix and AR/VR tools for maintenance and training
Can digitalisation improve environmental sustainability in aquaculture?
Yes digital tools help monitor water quality manage feed reduce pollution and track resource use supporting more sustainable practices
Is cybersecurity a concern for aquaculture digital systems?
Absolutely secure OT systems are essential for protecting data ensuring uptime and staying compliant with regulations like the NIS2 directive
What’s a good starting point for aquaculture digital transformation?
Begin with small strategic investments in integrated hardware and software platforms that offer immediate gains and can be scaled later
How does Sustainable Blue’s case show the value of digital transformation?
By adopting full automation they scaled operations reduced risks improved environmental impact and increased market appeal through cleaner production practices
