Standard Owner Benchmark - GLOBAL AQUACULTURE ALLIANCE

The Global Aquaculture Alliance (GAA) is an international non-profit organization that promotes and advocates for responsible and sustainable aquaculture practices. Founded in 1997, the GAA is dedicated to advancing environmentally and socially responsible aquaculture through education, advocacy, and certification programs.

The mission of the GAA is to promote responsible aquaculture practices that prioritize environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and food safety. They work with various stakeholders, including farmers, processors, retailers, government agencies, and NGOs, to drive positive change in the aquaculture industry.

One of the key initiatives of the GAA is the development and management of the Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification program. BAP is a comprehensive certification program that sets standards for responsible aquaculture across various species, including finfish, crustaceans, mollusks, and seaweed. The program covers key aspects such as environmental impact, social responsibility, food safety, and animal welfare.

Through the BAP certification program, the GAA helps aquaculture producers adopt best practices that minimize environmental impact, ensure traceability, and improve working conditions. BAP-certified products carry a label that assures consumers that the seafood they purchase comes from responsible and sustainable sources.

In addition to certification, the GAA conducts research, collaborates with industry partners, and organizes events and conferences to share knowledge and promote the adoption of sustainable aquaculture practices. They also engage in advocacy efforts to influence policies and regulations that support responsible aquaculture development.

The GAA operates globally and has a diverse membership base that includes aquaculture producers, suppliers, retailers, and other stakeholders from around the world. By bringing together various actors in the aquaculture industry, the GAA aims to create a more sustainable and responsible future for aquaculture.

As a non-profit organization, the GAA relies on membership dues, grants, and donations to fund its activities. Their work contributes to the development of a more sustainable aquaculture sector, addressing critical issues such as environmental impact, social responsibility, and food safety.