Course

In the first module of this course, you will explore a comprehensive approach to environmental and sustainability challenges within the food system, grounded in the One Health framework. This perspective highlights the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health - particularly within the seafood and aquaculture sectors. 

You will examine a range of influencing factors affecting sustainability in these industries and you will be introduced to methods for evaluating the overall sustainability of seafood products. The module also showcases ecological production techniques, not only for commonly consumed seafood in Europe but also for the increasingly important micro- and macroalgae sectors. 

Through interactive exercises, you can strengthen essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and critical thinking - preparing you to contribute meaningfully to the future of sustainable food systems.

Upon completion of the course and the quiz, access to a statement of participation is granted. 

Target audience:

• Professionals seeking to learn more about sustainable approaches, wishing to shift future production to a more One Health centered form and reducing their environmental impact.
• Professionals seeking to stay informed about latest innovations and advancements in production and processing techniques, novel and functional food legislations and tracebility.
• Researchers interested in improving production and processing efficiency, sustainability, and environmental impact within the industry.
• Other contributer to the value chain, such as suppliers, policymakers, and industry associations, who play a curcial role in ensuring the sector's growth, innovation and sustainability. 

In times of multiple crises, it is becoming increasingly important to address complex issues in a holistic way. One Health is an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals and ecosystems. One Health aims to tackle today's challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration. 

This lesson provides insights about One Health and its application in the EU. It further delves into the blue economy and aquaculture, showing the relevance of One Health in this sector. One Health implementation and the policy landscape in the EU are introduced. Finally, the concept of wicked problems is presented. 

As global seafood demand grows, conventional methods are reaching their limits — putting ecosystems and resources at risk. To meet future needs sustainably, we must rethink how we produce seafood and aquaculture products.

This lesson explores innovative techniques like recirculating systems and multi-trophic aquaculture, along with - for now - less popular raw materials in Europe such as algae. These solutions reduce environmental impact, close resource loops, and open the door to more circular, climate-friendly production.

Now it is time for you to test you knowledge with the following quiz for module 1!