The project evaluated near-field models for regulation and site selection of aquaculture, using a series of existing, adapted and newly developed models. TAPAS illustrated the most appropriated near-field modeling procedures for different types of marine and freshwater aquaculture throughout Europe. The model focused on the use and/or release of nutrients, carrying capacity and site selection for a range of fish and shellfish species. A range of models were included in this work from simple to complex and also included predictive tools presently used for regulation and those with potential for use. Furthermore, there were also an evaluation of modeling approaches that could be used for emerging production systems such as Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA). The following tasks were completed:
- Illustrating the most appropriate near field modelling procedures for marine and freshwater aquaculture sustainability throughout the EU
- Evaluating capabilities of near-field models for the purposes of aquaculture development and regulation in the EU in different environments and for different culture organisms
- Developing integrated site selection models using GIS – through integration of models into a “water-body scale” spatial systems
