NEWS – The Nature Environment and Wildlife Society (NEWS) of West Bengal’s Sundarbans has received global recognition for its Sustainable Aquaculture in Mangrove Ecosystems (SAIME) model. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) awarded NEWS with Global Technical Recognition on 15 October 2025 during its 80th Anniversary Celebrations and the World Food Forum in Rome, Italy. SAIME integrates aquaculture, mangrove conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable livelihoods.

HIGHLIGHTS

Background and Recognition

• Developed to address environmental and economic challenges in the Sundarbans.
• Promotes aquaculture maintaining 5–30% mangrove coverage in shrimp ponds.
• Ensures ecosystem health while supporting farmers’ incomes.
• FAO recognition underscores the global importance of ecosystem-based climate solutions.

Implementation and Impact

• Practiced over 30 hectares by 42 fish farmers in North and South 24 Parganas.
• Cultivation of Black Tiger Shrimp (Penaeus monodon) using mangrove litter as natural feed.
• Reduces reliance on external costly inputs.
• Farmers’ average annual net profit more than doubled due to cost savings and improved practices.

Community Participation and Good Practices

• Emphasises collective adoption of sustainable aquaculture practices.
• Promotes knowledge exchange and shared responsibility.
• Enhances adaptation to climate challenges like sea-level rise.

Environmental and Climate Benefits

• Mangroves act as natural buffers against storms and erosion.
• Chemical-free shrimp farming reduces pollution.
• Supports carbon sequestration, contributing to climate change mitigation.
• Aligns with global climate action goals and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Significance in Sundarbans Context

• Conventional shrimp farming led to mangrove loss and land-use change.
• SAIME provides a sustainable alternative balancing economy and ecology.
• Serves as a replicable model for other mangrove regions facing aquaculture expansion and climate threats.