10020083Exploration into Feasibility studies on the effectiveness of a new 100% natural UK Made innovative water treatment (Aquatech) to improve shrimp yields, offering huge export opportunities to AsiaClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKArtisanal fish farming and production in Thailand plays a major role in the socio-economic development and economic growth of the country, particularly in the areas of food security, and a sustainable means of livelihood and subsistence for rural communities. The demand for shrimp products is very high in Thailand (over 30million baht annually), whereas the current level of production is about 50% lower than 2011\. Despite the vast endowment in all the regions of the country. Moreover, developing countries, particularly in Africa where we would plan to further develop this technology after successful trials in Thailand, owes over 60% of their protein demand and supply needs to fresh fish produce/products because they are cheap, highly nutritional, and affordable (in comparison to other livestock products), especially for the low and middle-income earners across the country that constitute about 90% of the over 70 million population of Thailand. However, the need for more sustainable and innovative, and most importantly 100% natural technologies to treat and clean the water in which the fish are being farmed hampers increased production, deteriorates the quality of the fish, and adversely impacts the livelihood of these fishing communities. Accordingly, we would like to explore an early-mid stage feasibility study that will be aimed at providing specific natural and affordable solutions to some of the myriad challenges that are associated with artisanal fish farming in Thailand (where the project can be demonstrated) as a case study. The Aquatech study would first involve discussions with the Department of Fisheries (Dof) to discuss the testing and running of trials in selected locations in remote fishing communities in up to six geographical regions across Thailand. We need to formulate ways to show the effectiveness and efficiency of the Aquatech concept with a long-term view to improve fish quality and increase commercial production of the fishing communities in rural areas. Additionally, if the exploration into research is funded and the partnerships are formed, a Feasibility Study will therefore improve our analysis and evaluation of the project's potential, aimed at supporting the process of decision making for the subsequent and larger Market Development Project. More importantly, the development, implementation, and commercialization of the Aquatech technology in Thailand will provide avenues for enhanced communal engagement, as well as increase fish production outputs, and create equal employment opportunities for women and young fishwives that will lead to improved livelihoods in the rural communities.