The historic fish farm and its ponds at Griestal
Sustainability
Castell Salmon is strongly committed to sustainability, and our advanced farming system has numerous advantages over traditional flow-through and offshore farming systems.
Environmental, Social and Governance Benefits of Castell Salmon
Our Certification Goals and Targets
We aim to meet the rigorous standards required for ASC certification and the Allgäu regional brand. These are marks of environmental responsibility and regional authenticity that we aspire to achieve as we develop our operations.
- Preserve ocean ecosystems.
- Minimal risk of diseases.
- Away from ocean microplastics.
- Reduced CO₂ emission.
- Enhanced animal welfare oversight.
- Eliminates reliance on antibiotics and pesticides.
- Optimised resource efficiency.
Our ESG Goals and Targets
At Castell Salmon, we are deeply committed to Environmental, Social, and Governance principles that guide our operations and strategic planning. Our approach is built on three pillars: Environment and Climate Impact, Ocean Ecosystem and Fish Welfare, and People and Local Communities. Below are the goals within each pillar and the measures that support them.
Environment and Climate Impact
Feed
Our sustainable, German-produced feed will achieve a lower feed conversion ratio than industry standards, enhancing efficiency and reducing our ecological footprint.
Energy
At our Griestal facility, we will exclusively use renewable energy sources, significantly minimising our environmental impact.
Fresh Water
We will use our own high-quality spring water and recycle more than 97% of it. The farm will draw around 70% less water than the trout farm it replaces.
Transportation
We are working towards a low-emission value chain, collaborating with suppliers on lower-emission transport for feed, eggs and other essential materials.
Circular Economy
We will champion a circular economy by filtering and reusing a substantial percentage of water within our operations.
CO₂ Reduction and Accounting
Our facility will significantly reduce CO₂ emissions compared to traditional offshore fish farming systems, supporting our commitment to a healthier planet.
Ocean Ecosystem and Fish Welfare
Fish Welfare
We will prioritise fish welfare by providing a safe, species-appropriate, low-stress environment with strict stocking density limits, keeping our fish healthy.
Biodiversity
Designed by our partner Veolia to meet rigorous industry standards, our facility will prevent fish escapes, protecting local wildlife and maintaining natural biodiversity.
No Antibiotics
Our recirculating system, with strict biosecurity measures, will ensure the health of our fish without the use of antibiotics, offering an enhanced level of protection and health assurance.
Sustainable Feed and Resources
We are committed to responsible sourcing, using feed from sustainable origins that minimises wild fish use and maximises plant-based and alternative proteins.
Advanced Monitoring Systems
Our monitoring systems will track water quality, fish health, and environmental conditions, ensuring optimal operation and fish welfare.
Transparency and Traceability
Our operations will be transparent and traceable. We will document each production phase meticulously, allowing us to provide consumers with detailed information about our fish's origin and life cycle.
People and Local Communities
Suppliers, Local and Other
Our procurement strategy prioritises collaboration with local suppliers, boosting the socio-economic impact on local communities by creating jobs and fostering prosperity.
Local Community
We have assigned one of our Griestal springs to Markt Rettenbach for the village drinking water supply, and the council has begun construction.
Learning and Development
Working with local authorities, we will establish a training centre to educate and prepare a new generation of fish farmers, enhancing local expertise and employment opportunities.
Transparency and Food Safety
We will uphold transparency and food safety throughout our entire value chain, from egg to plate, meeting the highest standards for our consumers.
Employees and Board of Directors
Our focus on employee safety and reducing the carbon footprint includes promoting green commuting options and energy conservation efforts among our staff and leadership.
Compliance
We demand the highest standards from ourselves and our suppliers, and we will maintain all relevant certifications to meet market requirements.
Our Vision for a Sustainable Future
Land-Based Salmon Farming: Innovation Meets Ecology
At Castell Salmon, we are dedicated to advancing the aquaculture industry by integrating cutting-edge technology with ecological best practices. Our land-based farming system is more than an alternative to traditional methods, it is a step forward in sustainable food production. With an eye on global food security, we are committed to controlled local production that significantly reduces the environmental footprint of salmon farming.
Our mission goes beyond profit. At Castell Salmon, we are committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to contribute to global change through sustainable aquaculture.
Advantages of Land-Based Farming
Land-based salmon farming represents a groundbreaking shift towards more sustainable aquaculture practices. Unlike traditional open-water methods, which can negatively impact marine ecosystems through habitat damage, fish escapes, disease transmission, and depletion of wild fish populations, our land-based recirculating system offers significant environmental and operational benefits.
Preserving Ocean Ecosystems
Our farming methods will protect ocean life by maintaining biodiversity and minimising habitat disruption, ensuring we do not alter the delicate ecological balance.
Disease Prevention
We will significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission common in open-water farms by maintaining controlled conditions within our land-based systems.
Protected from Ocean Pollution
Our salmon will be raised in spring water in a land-based recirculating system, without exposure to the microplastic pollution found in the open sea.
Direct Market Access
Our proximity to markets will ensure that fresher produce reaches you faster, enhancing quality and reducing transit times.
Carbon Footprint Reduction
By optimising our farming systems, we will dramatically lower the carbon footprint of our salmon compared to traditional aquaculture methods.
Animal Welfare
We will uphold high standards of animal welfare, with rigorous oversight, so that our salmon are healthy and kept in low-stress conditions.
Antibiotics and Pesticides
Our sustainable farming practices will eliminate the need for antibiotics and pesticides, promoting natural growth and healthier fish.
Resource Efficiency
Our advanced systems will enhance the efficiency of water and feed use, significantly reducing waste and increasing overall sustainability.
Climate Resilience
Land-based systems are less susceptible to climate-related disruptions seen in ocean farming, ensuring stable production year-round.
Energy Efficiency
Our facilities are designed to minimise energy use, incorporating renewable energy sources where possible to power our operations sustainably.
Local Economic Benefits
Land-based farming contributes to local economies by providing jobs and supporting local businesses, fostering economic growth within our community.
Educational and Research Opportunities
We partner with academic institutions and research organisations to advance aquaculture technology and knowledge, sharing insights and innovations with the broader industry.
Enhanced Consumer Trust
We will ensure product consistency and quality through controlled operations, building superior consumer trust with transparent practices.
Reduced Water Usage
Our recirculating systems will significantly lower water usage, conserving this vital resource and reducing environmental strain.
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Aligned with the United Nations SDGs, Castell Salmon's practices reflect our dedication to environmental stewardship and driving socioeconomic progress worldwide. Below, we detail the specific goals we actively support, demonstrating our role in this global endeavour.
Zero Hunger
Our efficient production will contribute to a more secure food supply.
Good Health and Well-Being
Clean, healthy food and reduced disease risk contribute to better human health outcomes.
Clean Water and Sanitation
We will use and recycle water responsibly, conserving this precious resource.
Decent Work and Economic Growth
Our farming approach will generate jobs and support local economies.
Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
We are investing in infrastructure that leads the way in sustainable aquaculture technologies.
Responsible Consumption and Production
Our operations are designed around sustainability, efficiency, and waste reduction.
Climate Action
By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, we are helping to combat climate change.
Life Below Water
Our land-based system takes pressure off wild fish stocks and ocean ecosystems.
Life on Land
We will operate on an existing site, protecting the surrounding landscape and its wildlife.
Join Us in Our Sustainable Journey
Castell Salmon is not just a brand; it is a testament to what can be achieved when innovation collaborates with ecological conscience. We invite you to be a part of this sustainable journey towards a healthier planet and a brighter future.
Follow our Journey