With the world’s population expanding rapidly and estimated to reach nine billion in 2050, the demand for food will increase. Therefore the need for more sustainable ways of food production, in particular meat, poultry and fish are needed. Aquaculture can significantly contribute to this. This thesis focuses on Swedish aquaculture and in particular the increasingly used method of food fish farming in Recirculation Aquaculture Systems (RAS).

The aim of the thesis is to analyze and discern the possibilities and challenges of RAS in Sweden, with particular focus on Östergötland. Furthermore it examines if and how aquaculture can contribute to an economical, social and ecological more sustainable Swedish aquaculture sector. The methods used are semi-structured interviews with stakeholders and actors at different governmental levels and fish farmers, participation in stakeholder meetings and literature research. The results show that Swedish aquaculture has overtime developed a negative image among consumers, politicians, government officials and investors. Today Swedish aquaculture faces threats that need to be addressed and opportunities that should be taken. In order to succeed with RAS in Sweden solid business plans, conservative production/ profit estimates and marketing are essential. Feed sources remain a concern from an environmental and economical point of view. Lack of financing from banks, investors and insurance companies, threatens Swedish aquaculture sector at the moment. Furthermore a lack of knowledge and capacity among lower government levels negatively influences aquaculture developments and this needs attention. The Östergötland region should concentrate on RAS and mussel farming and has the potential to become an example for the rest of Sweden. Aquaculture positively contributes to regional and rural development of the Swedish-country side by job creation and stimulation of local economies which is important for Östergötland and applicable to other regions of Sweden.