Plans for the world's first octopus 'megafarm' in the Canary Islands have been canceled by the Spanish seafood group Nueva Pescanova, following significant ethical and environmental opposition. The company withdrew its planning application to the Port Authority of Las Palmas, citing administrative delays and uncertainty over procedures.
Nueva Pescanova had proposed a facility that would slaughter 3,000 tonnes of octopus annually, equivalent to more than one million animals. The project, which began its planning process in 2021, aimed to address the global octopus market, estimated to be worth £2.2 billion, by overcoming previous challenges in breeding the species in captivity. The company and the Spanish Institute of Oceanography had announced in 2019 that they had developed a method for raising octopuses entirely in tanks.
However, the proposal faced strong criticism from scientists, environmental groups, and animal welfare organizations. Concerns were raised about the welfare of octopus, which are widely acknowledged to be intelligent, sentient beings capable of feeling pain and experiencing emotions. Scientific reviews, including one led by Professor Jonathan Birch of the London School of Economics, have found strong evidence that octopuses are sentient and capable of feeling pain and pleasure. In 2022, the UK became the first country to legally recognize octopus sentience with the Animal Rights Bill.
Campaigners highlighted that under the proposed farm conditions, 10 to 15 percent of octopuses were expected to die before reaching full maturity. These solitary animals would be housed in crowded tanks, up to 15 per cubic meter, under constant bright lights. Their proposed method of slaughter involved plunging them into ice-cold tanks at -3°C (27°F), a process that studies suggest causes a slow and painful death.
Environmental impacts were also a significant concern. Reports estimated the farm would require 2.1 billion wild-caught fish for feed in its first year, potentially impacting already strained fish stocks. Additionally, experts warned of potential pollution from waste and excess chemicals, such as antibiotics, seeping into the surrounding waters. The Aquatic Life Institute issued a report in 2023 cautioning that Nueva Pescanova was 'prioritizing profits and polluting Las Palmas.' A letter signed by 130 members of the Aquatic Animal Alliance also warned the Canary Islands' environmental agency about 'serious biophysical and biosecurity risks' that had not been adequately addressed.
Despite the widespread opposition, Nueva Pescanova has stated that the cancellation was due to business and regulatory considerations, not ethical or environmental factors. The company maintains that this decision does not reflect on the future viability of octopus farming in general.