ISSN: 2577-4050
Authors: Zaqoot HA* and Hussein DMA
This study used the life cycle assessment (LCA) approach to evaluate the environmental impacts resulting from aquaculture ponds and associated activities. The assessment focused on eutrophication, acidification, global warming, energy use, and local nutrient emissions. Two farms, Fish Fresh and Al-Bahar, were analyzed to determine the contribution of different components in fish farming systems to various impact categories. Data on fish feed, onsite electricity, feed milling electricity, fuel intensity, water input, and fish production were meticulously collected through a comprehensive questionnaire and insightful interviews conducted over a one-year period in 2020. Furthermore, valuable information was diligently gathered regarding the nitrogen and phosphorus emissions in aquaculture ponds, with a focus on feed inputs. Environmental indicators were evaluated using a functional unit of 1 ton and 1 kg of live fish weight. Results reveled that global warming impacts varied between the two farms, with feed production being the primary contributor, accounting for 74.73% and 76.30% of total emissions, respectively. Acidifying emissions were mainly generated through fish production, accounting for 74.8% and 76.3% of the total for Fish Fresh and Al-Bahar farms, respectively. Eutrophication was primarily driven by fish production, while feed production and transportation operations also made noticeable contributions. The average emissions per kilogram of fresh fish were higher for the Fish Fresh farm compared to Al-Bahar in terms of global warming, acidification, and eutrophication. Energy consumption and water dependence also varied between the farms. These findings emphasize the importance of considering environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of fish farming in the Gaza Strip.
Keywords: Life Cycle Assessment; Environmental Impact; Global Warming; Aquaculture; Gaza Strip
