Sundarbans Aquaculture Model Wins FAO Global Award

The Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS) of West Bengal’s Sundarbans has earned global acclaim for its Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME) model. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations honoured NEWS with Global Technical Recognition on 15 October 2025. This award was given during FAO’s 80th Anniversary Celebrations and the World Food Forum in Rome, Italy. SAIME is a pioneering approach that integrates aquaculture with mangrove conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable livelihoods.

Background and Recognition

The SAIME model was developed to address the environmental and economic challenges in the Sundarbans, a unique mangrove ecosystem. It promotes aquaculture that sustains 5% to 30% mangrove coverage in shrimp farming ponds. This balance helps maintain ecosystem health while supporting farmers’ incomes. The FAO’s recognition marks the global importance of such ecosystem-based approaches amid climate change.

Implementation and Impact

SAIME has been implemented over nearly 30 hectares by 42 fish farmers in North and South 24 Parganas districts. The farmers cultivate Black Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon) using mangrove litter as natural fodder. This reduces reliance on costly external inputs. After several years, the average annual net profit for these farmers more than doubled. Cost savings and improved practices contributed to this financial success.

Community Participation and Good Practices

The model emphasises community involvement. Farmers collectively adopt good aquaculture practices that protect mangroves and sustain shrimp production. The participatory approach ensures shared responsibility and knowledge exchange. It also helps in adapting to climate challenges like sea-level rise, which threatens coastal areas including the Sundarbans.

Environmental and Climate Benefits

SAIME supports coastal resilience by preserving mangroves that act as natural buffers against storms and erosion. The chemical-free shrimp farming reduces environmental pollution. Mangrove conservation under this model aids carbon sequestration, contributing to climate change mitigation. This integrated approach aligns with global climate action goals and sustainable development.

Significance in the Sundarbans Context

Rampant shrimp farming has altered land use in the Sundarbans, often at the expense of mangroves. SAIME offers a sustainable alternative that balances economic needs with environmental conservation. It serves as a replicable model for other mangrove regions facing similar pressures from aquaculture expansion and climate threats.