Global need food resources have resulted in increased research and investment into marine-based aquaculture. Pressing humanitarian, ecological and economic challenges of the 21st century have widened public knowledge of the importance of sustainability and the international effects of industrial development. The increased value of marine resources has led to conflicts with their uses. The colocation of aquaculture and offshore wind farms could solve these clashes.The development of a rainbow trout farm within the confines of the Gwynt y Mor wind farm off the coast of North Wales have been proposed. The aquaculture project would consist of four cages, moored to the seabed with anchors. To determine the likely effect of the aquaculture project on the existing marine environment, assessments of the potential impacts were reviewed for the construction, operation and decommissioning phases of the project.

Miss Blanchard is a graduate MSc from Bangor University and has an interest in progressive use of the marine environment while encouraging sustainability. She is a professional PADI Divemaster and a member of the Green Fins Initiative.