The oyster extraction sector is mainly settled in traditional techniques and intensive labour and that is why Oysterworld, which positions itself as one of the most innovative in the sector in Portugal, is looking to use new technological methods which, not only will assure its competitiveness in a growing market, but also ensure better work conditions and a better product.

This project has a very positive social and environmental impact contributing to:

• Sustainable production and consumption: Oyster farming has a positive impact in the marine environment, as it improves water quality by acting as a filter (a single oyster filters on average 55 litres of water a day), it reduces the need for extractive fishing and it does not interfere with the natural stocks.
• Gender equality: the fishing labour sector is mainly occupied by men. This is mainly due to the low level of mechanization and automation that requires the use of strength. This project opens doors for hiring women. In fact, 50% of Oysterworld’s current employees are women.
• Better working conditions: the tasks required for oyster production are physically challenging, often leading to injuries, skin burns, other wounds or physical exhaustion. The improvements brought by this technique will reduce the employees’ physical exhaustion, increasing their productivity. Also, the company pays salaries above the average within the sector.
• Community sustainability: the people in the surrounding communities mostly work in seasonal jobs, connected to agriculture. Oyster production is supplying a steady job.

“This is a unique project that combines the positive environmental impact with the growth of a value-added industry, with potential for export and job creation in local communities", explains Nuno Brito Jorge, CEO of Goparity.