Rudong county in Nantong, East China's Jiangsu province, has made progress in treating the pollution problems associated with the development of South American white shrimp farming.

South American white shrimp farming is a vital source of income for the local community which primarily relies on greenhouse structures, pond farming and factory-based operations. The industry yields an average annual output value of approximately 60,000 yuan ($8,261) per mu (0.07 hectares).

However, the rapid expansion of the farming has resulted in a series of environmental challenges. The direct discharge of aquaculture wastewater into water bodies has led to deteriorating water quality and significant pollution in various areas.

To deal with these environmental issues and promote the sustainable development of South American white shrimp farming, Rudong has established an office for pollution issues in the farming of South American white shrimp and launched a comprehensive set of measures to regulate the industry effectively.

For example, the county in 2022 devised an implementation plan to address pond aquaculture wastewater pollution as well as initiated segmented remediation efforts within its coastal villages and developed specific remediation plans tailored to businesses and aquaculture farms.

Among the pioneers in wastewater treatment in Rudong, Jiulong village stands out. The village established a specialized aquaculture cooperative, attracting 68 households in the community, covering 5,800 mu of South American white shrimp farming. This transition from scattered treatment to centralized management has proven successful.

Rudong has implemented a range of wastewater treatment methods and established a comprehensive registration and filing system for aquaculture wastewater discharge.

At present, pollution issues linked to South American white shrimp farming in Rudong have been effectively solved. The county currently boasts over 81,000 mu dedicated to South American white shrimp farming, producing more than 100,000 tons annually and generating an output value exceeding 4 billion yuan.

Additionally, the thriving industry has also boosted the development of related sectors, including seedling production, cold chain logistics, and processing.

A South American white shrimp aquaculture base in Rudong. [Photo/ntjoy.com]