Despite its economic benefits, unsustainable shrimp farming has severely impacted ecosystems and biodiversity. Indonesia alone has led to the damage or degradation of approximately 70% of the country’s vital mangrove forests.
A sustainable, nature-based solution for people and planet
Shrimp farming has surged globally over recent decades, making it one of the world’s most widely traded seafood products.
Project Info
More information
Curious about their business model? Explore the BNCFF Blueprint on sustainable shrimp farming. Download the impact reports for deeper insights into the difference this project has made for nature and people.
Podcast
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Selva shrimp: A model for sustainable aquaculture in Kalimantan
Shrimp aquaculture doesn’t have to harm ecosystems. It can provide resilient income streams in regions with limited economic opportunities while supporting biodiversity when carefully implemented. Blueyou is expanding its successful “Selva Shrimp” model in North Kalimantan, Indonesia. Selva Shrimp emphasizes high-quality, sustainable seafood production for a high-end market by combining a no-input aquaculture approach with mangrove conservation and restoration.
By incentivizing local shrimp farmers to replant mangroves around their ponds, this initiative enhances the forest’s ability to deliver ecosystem services and increases the natural productivity of the shrimp farms. With sustainable management, increased productivity leads to higher shrimp yields, allowing farmers to boost their income without additional costs.
How BNCFF supports sustainable aquaculture expansion in North Kalimantan
Funding from the Blue Natural Capital Financing Facility (BNCFF) strengthens the business case for expanding sustainable shrimp farming across Kalimantan. BNCFF supports feasibility assessments to explore the addition of carbon credits as a supplementary income stream alongside strategic planning for broader implementation. Further, BNCFF funds investigations into sustainable seafood certifications to enhance the shrimp’s positioning as a high-end, eco-friendly product. With a proven model in Kalimantan, Blueyou aims to expand regionally, leveraging private and public investments.
Impacts created
Nature
Mangrove restoration provides multiple ecological benefits. It creates critical breeding habitats for shrimp and other species, supporting no-input aquaculture. Additionally, mangroves act as vital carbon sinks, and their restoration boosts carbon sequestration, contributing positively to global climate resilience.
People
Switching to the Selva Shrimp method can triple farmers’ income, creating stable livelihoods in local communities. Ecosystem restoration also bolsters protection and resilience against natural disasters. On a global scale, this sustainable approach contributes to combating climate change and supporting coastal biodiversity.
Business
Selva Shrimp’s sustainable model, certified by the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), EU Organic, and Ocean Wise, meets the rising demand for eco-conscious seafood. This enables premium market positioning and a viable income stream. Certification helps ensure consistent quality and supports the project’s market expansion.
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