BioMar’s First Sustainability Seminar: A Big Step Forward for Chilean Salmon Farming

Derek Kohn, General Manager of BioMar Chile, set the tone as he welcomed attendees, highlighting BioMar’s mission to be a catalyst for positive change. “Sustainability is part of our mission, and we believe that collaboration is key to moving forward as an industry in this area. At BioMar, we want to be agents of change and support our customers in their journey.” He underscored BioMar’s commitment to the Science Based Targets initiative, a critical step toward meeting global climate goals, and the company’s role as the only aquafeed business with reduction plans validated by SBTi. 

The event started with a lunch that allowed guests to connect, then moved into an insightful programme of sessions. The first session centered on the theme of green finance and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance. Vidar Gundersen, BioMar’s Global Sustainability Director, opened with a look at how ESG principles are reshaping the standards for sustainable aquaculture worldwide. Following him, Soledad Ramirez Aravena, Director of Sustainable Finance and Climate Change at Santander Chile, discussed the role of sustainable finance as a means to counter climate change, while DNB’s Esteban Szasz presented on how sustainability is increasingly influencing financial trends. 

In the second session, the conversation turned to the competitive edge that sustainability can offer. Erik Gracey, BioMar’s Global Sustainability Commercial Manager, provided concrete examples of companies worldwide that have turned sustainable practices into profitable opportunities.  

Later, the spotlight was on Arlin Wasserman, Founder and Managing Director of Changing Tastes, whose presentation delved into U.S. consumer behaviour. Wasserman suggested that Chilean salmon could find greater success in the American market by aligning with emerging preferences, especially among younger generations seeking sustainably sourced seafood. “They long held beliefs about why consumers eat seafood that underpin the way the seafood industry thinks about promoting consumption are ripe for change, especially given the changes in the U.S. offer the past five years as younger consumers are the key to increasing consumption of fish and seafood. Chilean salmon producers can boost their value and sales in a competitive US market by emphasizing sustainability practices including many not covered by certifications as well as their own culinary traditions which help Americans choose to eat salmon more often” he noted.

The event concluded with a lively rooftop cocktail gathering, featuring wines from Koyle winery and a beautiful view of the city. Attendees shared reflections on the day’s discussions and new ideas on how to drive the sustainability agenda forward.

Overall, the BioMar Sustainability Seminar was a powerful moment for the industry, highlighting BioMar Chile’s role in promoting sustainable development in salmon farming. The event was a valuable space for discussion, inspiration, and practical insights that could shape the future of Chilean salmon in a changing world.