Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME)
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has honored a sustainable aquaculture model developed by the Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS) in the Sundarbans, West Bengal. This model is known as the Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME).
Recognition and Implementation
- SAIME received the Global Technical Recognition award from FAO on October 15, 2025, during its 80th Anniversary Celebrations and World Food Forum in Rome, Italy.
- The model has been implemented across 29.84 hectares by 42 fish farmers in the Sundarbans.
Key Features of SAIME
- It is an ecosystem-based, climate-adaptive, and conservation-linked approach.
- Ensures 5%–30% mangrove coverage in aquaculture ponds.
- Farmers utilize mangrove litter for the monoculture of Black Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon).
- A community participatory approach is employed, promoting good aquaculture practices.
- Strikes a balance between mangrove conservation and aquaculture-based livelihoods.
Benefits of the SAIME Model
- Farmer's annual average net profit increased by over 100% due to reduced production costs.
- Promotes chemical-free shrimp farming.
- Enhances coastal resilience and supports sustainable livelihoods.
- Aids in carbon sequestration and climate action amid global sea-level rise.
Significance
Experts and government officials highlight the model's importance as it counters the impacts of rampant shrimp farming which is altering land use in the Sundarbans.
