RAS technology works in fish farming by creating a closed-loop water system that continuously filters, treats, and recirculates water through fish tanks. This land-based approach controls water quality, temperature, and oxygen levels whilst removing waste through biological and mechanical filtration systems. The technology enables sustainable fish farming with minimal water usage and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional methods.
Introduction to Finnforel’s sustainable trout farming revolution
We at Finnforel are pioneering a new approach to aquaculture through our commitment to producing clean, healthy, and ecological trout using advanced land-based recirculating aquaculture systems. Our mission centres on creating a complete production chain that spans from healthy roe to delicious fillets, all within controlled environments that prioritise sustainability.
Our innovative approach allows us to grow fish closer to consumers, reducing transportation needs and enabling same-day delivery of fresh products to retailers. This proximity to markets significantly reduces our carbon footprint whilst ensuring maximum freshness for consumers. Discover more about our sustainable fish farming practices and how we’re transforming the industry.
The environmental benefits of our land-based system extend beyond reduced transport. By eliminating the need for sea-based farming, we avoid risks associated with fish escapes, reduce pressure on wild fish populations, and minimise the impact on marine ecosystems. Our controlled environment also allows for optimal resource utilisation and waste management.
What is RAS technology and how does it work in fish farming?
Recirculating aquaculture systems represent a revolutionary approach to fish farming that operates through a sophisticated closed-loop water management system. The technology continuously treats and reuses water, creating an optimal environment for fish growth whilst minimising environmental impact.
The core components of RAS technology include mechanical filtration systems that remove solid waste particles, biological filters that convert harmful ammonia into less toxic compounds, and UV sterilisation units that eliminate pathogens. Temperature control systems maintain optimal water conditions, whilst oxygen injection ensures adequate dissolved oxygen levels for healthy fish development.
Water quality monitoring systems continuously track parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, ammonia levels, and temperature. This real-time monitoring allows for immediate adjustments to maintain perfect growing conditions. The system typically recycles 95-99% of water, making it incredibly efficient compared to traditional flow-through systems.
| RAS Component | Function | Environmental Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Filtration | Removes solid waste | Prevents water pollution |
| Biological Filtration | Converts ammonia to nitrates | Maintains water quality |
| UV Sterilisation | Eliminates pathogens | Reduces disease transmission |
| Oxygen Injection | Maintains dissolved oxygen | Supports healthy fish growth |
Why is Finnforel’s land-based fish farming more sustainable than traditional methods?
Our land-based RAS approach offers significant environmental advantages over traditional sea-based fish farming by eliminating the risk of fish escapes and reducing impact on wild marine ecosystems. The controlled environment prevents diseases from spreading to wild populations whilst avoiding the use of chemicals that might affect surrounding waters.
Traditional sea-based farming often requires transporting fish over long distances, contributing to carbon emissions and reducing product freshness. Our land-based facilities can be positioned closer to consumer markets, dramatically reducing transportation requirements and enabling same-day delivery of fresh products.
The sustainable fish farming approach we employ also eliminates the need to catch wild fish for feed conversion, as our controlled system optimises feed efficiency. This reduces pressure on wild fish stocks whilst ensuring our trout receive precisely balanced nutrition for optimal growth and health.
Water usage represents another crucial advantage. Whilst traditional systems require constant water exchange, our RAS technology recycles water continuously, using up to 99% less water than conventional methods. This conservation approach makes fish farming viable in areas where water resources are limited.
How does Finnforel ensure the quality and health of their trout?
We maintain exceptional trout quality through comprehensive control over every aspect of the growing environment, from water quality parameters to nutrition programmes. Our controlled growing conditions eliminate many variables that can affect fish health in traditional farming systems.
Water quality management forms the foundation of our quality assurance programme. Continuous monitoring systems track dissolved oxygen, pH levels, ammonia concentration, and temperature around the clock. Any deviation from optimal parameters triggers immediate corrective actions to maintain perfect growing conditions.
Our nutrition programmes utilise high-quality feeds specifically formulated for RAS environments. We work closely with feed specialists to ensure our trout receive optimal nutrition that supports healthy growth whilst minimising waste production. This controlled feeding approach results in consistently high-quality fish with excellent taste and texture.
Health monitoring systems include regular fish health assessments, growth rate tracking, and behavioural observations. The controlled environment allows us to detect and address any issues immediately, ensuring our trout maintain optimal health throughout their growth cycle.
What makes Finnforel’s production facilities environmentally responsible?
Our production facilities, including the Varkaus Gigafactory and Hollola breeding centre, incorporate advanced energy efficiency measures and comprehensive waste management systems. These facilities demonstrate how modern aquaculture can operate responsibly whilst maintaining high production standards.
The Varkaus Gigafactory produces 3 million kilograms of trout annually using state-of-the-art RAS technology. The facility’s design optimises energy usage through heat recovery systems, efficient water pumping, and LED lighting systems. Waste management protocols ensure that all byproducts are processed responsibly, with solid waste often converted into valuable fertiliser products.
Our Hollola breeding centre specialises in producing healthy broodstock and juveniles for RAS systems. This facility focuses on genetic selection programmes that enhance disease resistance and growth efficiency, contributing to the overall sustainability of our production system.
Integration with local suppliers, including feed production partnerships, reduces transportation requirements and supports local economies. This approach aligns with our commitment to minimising environmental impact whilst maintaining the highest quality standards. Contact us to learn more about our facility operations and sustainability initiatives.
Choosing Finnforel’s sustainable trout farming approach
Our RAS-based approach delivers multiple advantages including enhanced environmental sustainability, superior product freshness, reduced food waste, and significant local production benefits. These advantages position us at the forefront of modern aquaculture innovation.
Environmental sustainability remains our primary focus, with our land-based systems eliminating risks associated with traditional sea farming. Our approach prevents fish escapes, reduces disease transmission to wild populations, and minimises chemical usage. The efficient water recycling system conserves this precious resource whilst maintaining optimal growing conditions.
Product freshness represents another key advantage of our approach. Our brands LOHI and Saimaan Tuore deliver exceptionally fresh trout products to consumers, with same-day delivery capabilities from production to retail. This freshness translates into superior taste, texture, and nutritional value for consumers.
Our expansion into international markets, including potential developments in Abu Dhabi, demonstrates the global applicability of our sustainable approach. These projects showcase how RAS technology can bring fresh, locally-produced fish to markets worldwide whilst maintaining environmental responsibility. Learn more about our sustainable practices and how they’re shaping the future of aquaculture.
