Part 3 Species-Specific Public Policies for Sustainable Development

Abstract

Public policies are an important management component of support for an aquaculture industry. This paper discusses the public policies adopted for shrimp aquaculture in Taiwan and the status of its shrimp farming industry. Pond license legislation, programs for aquaculture zoning, water recycling, and certification for farms that follow good aquaculture practices, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point approaches and research, and extension problems are discussed. Based on time-series and farm survey data, the development of the shrimp farming industry is analyzed. Most shrimp farms are not sustainable. The intensive culture system has resulted in serious pollution problems, which affects the sustainability of the industry. Numerous lessons can be learned from the Taiwanese shrimp farming industry. Various changes are recommended for improving environmental management of shrimp aquaculture. Environmental management of shrimp culture will have to be a high priority for the industry, and government policy is crucial for ensuring sustainable development.