Over the last 20 years, ecological aquaculture practitioners have thoroughly demonstrated "proof of principle" in designing, engineering, and implementing models of aquaculture ecosystems suitable for diverse natural and social ecosystems. These sustainable, ecological aquaculture systems (SEAS) demonstrate innovations in the integration of mariculture and marine ecosystems, combined aquaculture, agriculture and restoration, and incorporate advances in input- and output management, solar, water and wind energy. Fish are the world's most important source of animal protein, especially for the poor, and demands for fish proteins are increasing 100 fold rapidly. Fish contribute more animal protein for human consumption than beef and poultry combined. The coastal economies of all nations are dependent on fishery products. An estimated 15 million people are employed directly in fishing, and millions more work in marketing, processing, and other associated manufacturing activities. Market Overview - THE WORLD STATE OF FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE 2013 Global Fishing business value is US$227.5 billion. Global production is around 154 million tonnes per annum. In the last 3 decades, world fish production on aquaculture has expanded 12 times, at an average of 8.8% per annum. It has been estimated that to maintain the current level per capita consumption, by 2020 the world requires another 26 million tonnes of aquatic animal food which aquaculture will have to provide. By 2018 farmed fish is expected to exceed captured fish for human consumption for the first time
