French minister backs controversial salmon farm project despite opposition

France's Minister of Industry, Sébastien Martin, has asserted that a large-scale salmon farm project in the Gironde region has no obstacles to its realization. The project, spearheaded by Pure Salmon, plans to establish a closed-circuit facility in Verdon-sur-Mer, aiming to produce 10,000 tons of salmon per year and generate 400 jobs. The company highlights the project's importance for France's food sovereignty, as the country currently imports 99% of its salmon consumption.

Despite the minister's backing, the initiative has drawn significant opposition. Around a hundred lawmakers have called for a ten-year moratorium on such "factory farms." Additionally, 27 NGOs have voiced concerns, describing the project as "completely disproportionate" and warning of its potential negative impact on the ecosystem of Europe's largest estuary. They cite worries about water and energy consumption, as well as the discharge of sludge that could harm local fishing and shellfish farming industries.

Minister Martin emphasized that all administrative and environmental procedures are being followed and that the project appears to comply with the established framework. He noted that his colleague, the Minister of Ecological Transition, had expressed personal reservations but not on behalf of the government. The company, Pure Salmon, defends its project by highlighting its "proven technology" which ensures a "controlled impact on biodiversity," prioritizing "animal welfare," and adhering to "strict standards" for "responsible and traceable" feed. A final environmental authorization will be granted by the prefect after a review by the departmental council for environmental and health risks.