A Deep Dive into Hawaii’s Seafood Industry: Reducing Fish Processing Waste

Fish processing waste generated throughout the Hawaiian Islands presents both a challenge and an opportunity for local seafood distributors. This research explores potential waste management strategies to alleviate the negative impacts of seafood waste, increase product development, and grow revenue for Hawai‘i-based seafood distributors. Through a survey of seafood distributors in Hawai‘i and a document analysis of strategies from other regions, particularly the Iceland Ocean Cluster, this research identifies potential value-added products and management practices to enhance revenue streams and reduce the adverse effects of fish processing waste. The survey results reveal the current composition, amount, and management strategies regarding seafood processing waste in Hawai‘i. The document analysis identifies successful models of collaboration, value-added product development, financing opportunities, technological innovation, and market development. The recommendations outlined in this report provide a roadmap for navigating challenges and identifying opportunities to minimize fish processing waste and maximize revenue within Hawaii’s seafood industry.