Chemicals entering into the environment from Marine Harvest farming operations are mainly antifoulants and medicines.
Antifoulants are chemical compounds used to prevent fouling, that is the growth of algae (seaweed) on nets and cages. Algal growth can hinder water circulation through the cages and cause oxygen depletion.
We are interested in assessing new eco-friendly antifoulants and physical control methods, such as net cleaning systems or systems using alternating nets in the same pen (environmental nets). The products that we use on Marine Harvest farms are those that have been demonstrated to have minimal environmental impact.
Our attention to fish welfare means that diseases are kept to a minimum through the application of good husbandry and management practices, and the use of safe and effective vaccines. We cooperate with other businesses such as vaccine manufacturers in the development of new vaccines to control more fish diseases.
Where disease outbreaks do occur, they are controlled using appropriate licensed medicines that can only be prescribed by a veterinarian and administered under appropriate veterinary supervision, in accordance with all relevant regulations. We strictly comply with the specified withdrawal periods before harvesting and check the fish for any residues.
Medicines are closely monitored in all Marine Harvest operations, with the objective of minimising their use. Antibiotics are only used to treat bacterial diseases and never to promote growth. No hormones are used for this purpose either.