OFFSHORE AQUACULTURE ENGINEERING: PART I – DEMYSTIFYING THE APPROACH

The engineering design of aquaculture structures in the offshore environment present unique and formidable engineering challenges. Unlike land-based infrastructure, these structures are subjected to extreme environmental loads from a combination of waves, currents, and wind activity. The successful implementation of specialized engineering principles is paramount to ensuring the structural integrity and sustainability of offshore aquaculture installations, thereby safeguarding both human lives and the environment. This presentation will use layman’s terms to answer questions such as:

1. What is structural integrity? How do engineers design for structural integrity?

2. How are offshore aquaculture structures designed for structural integrity?

3. Who are the stakeholders affected by the structural integrity of offshore aquaculture structures?

4. What are the gaps in best engineering practices for the design of offshore aquaculture structures? What work is being done to fill these gaps?

This presentation will explore the critical role of engineering in establishing a resilient and reliable offshore aquaculture industry and discuss why a well-engineered structure is the foundation of a sustainable food future.