AquaVanta Harvests (Pty) Ltd Business Plan › Section 13 › Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG)

AquaVanta is committed to responsible business practices that generate positive environmental, social, and governance outcomes alongside attractive financial returns. The venture is well-aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and major ESG frameworks.

13.1 Environmental Stewardship

• Water Conservation: RAS technology recycles up to 95% of water, reducing freshwater consumption per kilogram of fish produced by approximately 80% versus conventional pond systems.

• Reduced Pressure on Wild Fisheries: Each tonne of farmed catfish produced substitutes for wild-caught fish, directly supporting marine conservation and biodiversity objectives.

• Renewable Energy Integration: The 200kW solar PV installation reduces carbon emissions by an estimated 180–220 tonnes of CO2 per annum.

• Waste Management: Fish processing waste (offal, skin, bones) will be converted to fishmeal and organic fertiliser, creating a circular economy model and additional revenue streams.

13.2 Social Impact

• Job Creation: The venture will create 55–65 direct jobs in rural Limpopo at full capacity, with an estimated further 100–150 indirect jobs in supply chain, logistics, and retail.

• Skills Development: A formal training programme will upskill local workers in aquaculture technology, water quality management, and food processing — transferable skills with long-term employment value.

• Smallholder Development: The satellite farming model provides fingerlings, feed, and technical support to emerging small-scale farmers, creating inclusive economic opportunities in surrounding communities.

• Food Security Contribution: Increasing the supply of affordable, locally produced protein directly supports South Africa’s food security objectives.

13.3 Governance

• Board of Directors comprising executive and independent non-executive directors

• Annual external audit by a registered audit firm

• Quarterly management accounts and investor reporting

• Compliance with Companies Act (No. 71 of 2008), B-BBEE Act, and DFFE aquaculture regulations

• Anti-corruption and ethics policy in line with King IV governance principles

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