IntraFish is running an exclusive series of interviews with some of Global Salmon Initiative's (GSI) member CEOs, drilling down on the key achievements of the initiative, what future work needs to occur and how other seafood sectors can learn from GSI's experiences.

Today, Skretting CEO Therese Log Bergjord talks about why her company joined the GSI and what challenges the group is still facing.

Why did you decide to join the GSI in the first place?

Skretting joined the Global Salmon Initiative because we believe in collaboration between key players in the industry. The initiative has a very good target and has a clear plan.

Feed plays a very important role in the sustainable growth of salmon farming.

"The main challenge remains to continue to build a truly sustainable industry; we are not quite there yet."

Why is it important?

It is important that we have created a platform where we can gather information about the progress that all key players are doing. With this kind of gathering, members contribute to increasing trust in the industry and transparency.

What has it achieved over the past five years?

The level of transparency that the industry has achieved is impressive. I worked in the industry from 2003 until 2009, and this would have been unthinkable at the time; it would not have been possible.

Also, the innovation that has been brought to the industry in terms of sustainable farming is very inspiring.

How has being part of the GSI benefited your business?

The GSI gives us an arena to discuss a common challenge with other experts. All the members are very talented people who are key players in the industry, so it is really beneficial to be able to share knowledge and expertise across the industry.

Of course, Skretting did not start its path in sustainability with the creation of the GSI, but it has now become a very important collaboration area for us in our efforts towards sustainability.

What are the current priorities for the group?

The priority is now to have a plan to work on sustainable solutions to tackle biosecurity issues such as sea lice and to bring down the use of antibiotics in the industry.

GSI members have a goal to get 100-percent certified and this will be key to accomplishing the goals of the group.

Where do you see the future of the GSI heading over the next five years?

I see it becoming stronger and better. I’ve been in the oil industry for 25 years and we have seen a fantastic development year after year in the industry from collaboration.

I believe having a plan and not losing focus on the objectives can only make it grow stronger.

What challenges has the GSI managed to overcome so far, and what challenges remain?

The main challenge that we have overcome has been to build a collaborative model where all parties sit together to discuss truly and with transparency where we are. Being completely honest and finding that balance where the different companies truly work together and agree on what we can do together.

The main challenge remaining is to continue to work to be a truly sustainable industry; we are not quite there yet.

Aquaculture

Skretting CEO Therese Log Bergjord: 'GSI gives us an arena to discuss a common challenge with other experts'