Preserving the Environment: Our Commitment to Sustainable Oyster Farming Practices

At Sanctuary Oysters and Sol Azul, we take our commitment to preserving the environment very seriously. It's not just a corporate buzzword for us; it's a personal passion that we bring to our work every day. We understand the impact of climate change and environmental degradation on the planet, and we believe that it's our responsibility to do everything we can to protect and sustain the environment. We know that small changes can make a big difference, and we're dedicated to doing our part.

Our commitment to sustainability begins with our farming techniques. We use a farming method known as "off-bottom" farming, where oysters are grown in bags that are placed on racks two feet from the seabed. This technique has a lower impact on the environment than traditional bottom farming, as it does not disrupt the seabed and allows for better water flow, which helps support the health and quality of our oysters.

In addition to our farming methods, we are also committed to reducing our carbon footprint. Today, 80% of our operations run-on renewable energy such as solar power, and 100% of the freshwater needs are produced by a desalination plant powered by the solar power system. We also work with our suppliers to source materials locally whenever possible and use eco-friendly packaging for our products.

But our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our farming practices and operations. We also prioritize environmental stewardship in everything we do, from working with local organizations to protect natural habitats to supporting research and education initiatives that promote sustainable aquaculture practices.

 

The Sanctuary Oysters/Sol Azul facilities are located on the Pacific coast in the El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve. This important conservation wildlife refuge is at the center of the Baja peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez or the Gulf of California. Declared a national biosphere in 1988, El Vizcaino has a landmass of over 2.5 million hectares (143,600 square km). It is the largest wildlife refuge in all Latin America and the most diverse. Our team is actively engaged in managing the natural environment on the farm and in the biosphere and is a member of the technical management committee for the Biosphere Reserve.

At Sanctuary Oysters, we believe that sustainability and profitability are not mutually exclusive. By operating in a way that protects and preserves the environment, we are able to offer a high-quality, sustainable product that meets the needs of our customers and contributes to a healthier planet.

We know that there's still a long way to go to create a more sustainable future, but we're committed to doing our part. We invite you to join us on this journey and to learn more about our commitment to sustainable oyster farming practices. Together, we can make a difference and create a better world for ourselves and future generations.

 

Rachel Helmer