Do fish feel pain? Rethinking fishing and aquaculture for the future of the planet

Every day millions of fish are caught or farmed. Yet we still know little about what's really going on below the surface.
This workshop addresses an often overlooked topic: fish welfare and its concrete impact on the environment, on the production sector and on our daily choices, including the supply chains from which ingredients widely used in the food and nutraceutical fields, such as Omega-3 and other oil derivatives, derive.
Starting from what really happens behind the scenes of fishing and aquaculture, we will discover why today a change of perspective is necessary and recognize animal sensitivity as a central element.
Through real examples, it will be shown how it is possible to reduce fish suffering and, at the same time, make the supply chain more sustainable and transparent.
At the center, the Friend of the Sea project, an example of how certifications and guidelines can guide companies and consumers towards more informed choices, generating value for everyone.
An opportunity to explore a topic that is still little known and to start looking at the sea with different eyes.

Workshop in collaboration with IMCD Italia Technology Innovation Lab Partner di STEP

Paolo Bray is an economist and environmental sustainability expert, with more than thirty years of experience in the protection of marine ecosystems. 
He is founder and director of the World Sustainability Organization and of the Friend of the Sea and Friend of the Earth certification programs, now recognized internationally for the promotion of sustainable supply chains. 
He also serves as director of the Earth Island Institute's Dolphin-Safe program, an initiative that has helped save millions of dolphins from tuna fishing practices.

Riccardo Giacomessi is Business Development Director (Semi) Commodities EMEA and Business Development Director Food & Nutrition Greece at IMCD. With more than 20 years of international experience in the Food & Beverage sector, he has held roles of increasing responsibility between Europe and Asia, developing skills in sourcing, market intelligence and business development. At IMCD, he leads strategic growth initiatives and supports regional business development.