The National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences is implementing a project to create an investment map to identify the best sites for bio aquaculture in the Red Sea.

The National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences is implementing a project to create an investment map to identify the best sites for bio aquaculture in the Red Sea.

Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, emphasized the importance of aligning research outcomes with the country’s development plans. He highlighted the need for collaboration among various entities to maximize the benefits of scientific research, as part of ongoing efforts to support the state’s strategic plans and achieve Egypt’s Vision 2030.

The National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences, through its Marine Sciences Department, has undertaken an ambitious project aimed at creating an investment map to identify the most suitable locations for open-water cage bio aquaculture in the Red Sea.

Dr. Islam Abu Al-Magd, President of the National Authority for Remote Sensing and Space Sciences, affirmed that this project serves as a practical example of linking the Authority's strategic and research plans with the state's plans and strategies to achieve sustainable development goals, maximize the return on research outputs, and create investment opportunities, increase production, and generate job opportunities for youth.

Dr. Sameh El-Kafrawy, Head of the Marine Sciences Department, explained that this project represents a model of integration between scientific research and advanced technology to serve society and strengthen the national economy.

The Head of the Marine Sciences Department indicated that the project relied on the use of modern remote sensing techniques, which provided accurate and comprehensive data for analyzing the environmental and climatic conditions in the Red Sea. These analyses included studying sea surface temperature, chlorophyll concentrations, wind speed and direction, in addition to detailed mapping of marine habitats and the benthic environment. He explained that these advanced tools enabled the research team to identify the optimal areas for fish farming in floating cages in a sustainable manner and without affecting the surrounding marine environment.

Ali Abd El-Hamid, Assistant Researcher at the Department, stated that this project represents a qualitative leap in the field of fish farming in Egypt, as it provides accurate scientific tools for decision-makers and investors. He pointed out that the project focuses on enhancing local and international investments in the aquaculture sector, creating new job opportunities, and improving the standard of living in coastal communities. He emphasized that the resulting maps enhance Egypt's competitiveness in global markets through the sustainable use of natural resources.

The results obtained by the project are distinguished by their focus on achieving a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. Therefore, the locations identified by the project are ideal from both environmental and economic perspectives, as they take into account the requirements of fish farming without negatively affecting sensitive ecosystems such as coral reefs and protected areas.

Approximately 255 square kilometers of areas suitable for fish farming using floating cages have been identified, and spatial distribution models of optimal fish farming locations have been developed, taking into account environmental and economic factors.