health
ALARMING REPORT Fish farms significantly pollute fjords: Here's what they are releasing into the sea!
Norwegian fish farms, the world's largest salmon producers, are releasing large amounts of nutrients into coastal waters, contributing to fjord pollution "equivalent to the wastewater of tens of millions of people," according to a report by the Sanstoun Institute.
TL;DR
- Norwegian fish farms, the world's largest salmon producers, release significant amounts of nutrients into coastal waters.
- In 2025, Norwegian aquaculture discharged approximately 75,000 tons of nitrogen, 13,000 tons of phosphorus, and 360,000 tons of organic carbon into the sea.
- Excess nutrients promote algae blooms and reduce oxygen levels, endangering marine ecosystems, especially in fjords.
- Rising fish feed consumption has increased the overall nutrient load.
- Summer months exacerbate the pollution problem as ecosystems are less able to absorb it.
- Some fjords, like Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord, are experiencing oxygen level declines linked to aquaculture and climate change.
- The industry maintains its emissions are within natural capacities and is working to reduce environmental impact.
- Norwegian authorities are considering restrictions, while scientific analyses of long-term impacts continue.