Yaya Urassaya Sperbund, a renowned Thai-Norwegian celebrity and the inaugural ambassador for Seafood from Norway in Thailand, recently embarked on a journey to explore innovative sustainable aquaculture practices at a salmon farm in Norway.
During her visit to Vesteralen, Norway, Yaya Urassaya delved into the world of salmon farming, which combines traditional and ocean-based techniques, as part of the “The Story from the North” campaign.
Norway, once known for its harsh climate and challenging living conditions, has evolved into an optimal environment for fish farming. This transformation has positioned Norway as a global leader in sustainable fishing and aquaculture, with time-honored practices passed down through generations and a status as one of the world’s largest seafood exporters.
Today, Norway’s fishing industry relies heavily on cutting-edge technology and innovation. It seamlessly blends biologically sound methods with advanced technology and rigorous regulations to ensure both food safety and the longevity of the industry, all while safeguarding the marine ecosystem.
Salmon farming in Norway primarily takes place in expansive open-sea farms, where fish thrive in clean, cold waters. The ratio of water to salmon in each pen is approximately 97.5% to 2.5%, providing an ideal environment for growth.
Innovations such as laser-guided AI-controlled devices play a crucial role in maintaining fish health. These devices accurately detect and target sea lice on the fish, ensuring the well-being and flavor of the salmon without harming them.
Preserving the marine environment is paramount, and this is achieved through carefully scheduled rest periods between each farming cycle. These intermissions allow the underwater ecosystem to rejuvenate and recover, and Norway enforces strict regulations to ensure the sustainable management of its coastal waters.
Norwegian salmon farms employ IoT sensors for real-time monitoring, analysis, and data provision. This data is used to create digital replicas of the fish farms in the cloud, enabling farm operators to monitor and maintain critical areas, assess structures under various weather and sea conditions, and make informed decisions.
Heat maps are employed to monitor fish feeding, ensuring that each feeding session aligns with strict industry standards and minimizes adverse environmental impacts.
Norway’s approach draws on over a century of expertise in statistics, data analysis, state-of-the-art technology, and comprehensive regulations to responsibly manage its fishing industry. This commitment ensures the long-term sustainability of the ocean for future generations.
Yaya Urassaya’s “The Story from the North” campaign serves as a bridge between Thailand and Norway, providing Thai audiences with a deeper understanding of the northern way of life, the sea, and a profound appreciation for Norway’s natural beauty.