An Aquaculture Adaptation Framework (Aqua-Adapt) to assess strategies for adapting aquaculture to climate change

Aquaculture’s vulnerability to climate change demands urgent, practical adaptation strategies. Strengthening the sector’s resilience requires coordinated efforts across multiple levels, from farms and communities to research systems and governance. Studies have highlighted the need for more climate-resilient practices and clearer guidance on identifying effective technologies and innovations. To address this, FAO developed the Aquaculture Adaptation Framework for Climate Change (Aqua-Adapt). This tool supports the design and implementation of strategies to enhance resilience. Two case studies – on salmon and mussel farming – helped refine the framework by testing adaptation technologies and improving its practical relevance. Aqua-Adapt is based on definitions from the IPCC’s Fifth and Sixth Assessment Reports and focuses on reducing risks while creating new opportunities. It outlines a six-step process involving stakeholder participation and evidence-based planning. The first step is to establish the unit of adaptation, which may range from individual farmers to the minimum geographical and/or geopolitical unit of adaptation. The second step is to identify and choose the most appropriate climate projection pathways and models. The third step is to perform a risk and vulnerability assessment on the defined unit. The fourth step is to design an adaptation work plan to reduce the identified exposure and sensitivity and increase adaptive capacity in the adaptation unit. The fifth step involves implementing the strategy in accordance with the work plan. The sixth involves conducting ongoing monitoring and evaluation to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the implemented measures, costs, and/or technical difficulties. Aqua-Adapt provides a structured and flexible approach to support climate adaptation in aquaculture, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions that reduce risk and enhance long-term resilience.