Usos de agua de mar profunda en Japón (pdf)

Deep sea water (from a depth of more than 200 m) has cold temperature, abundant nutrients, and good water quality that is pathogen-free and stable. Basic research on the utilization of this water for fisheries in Japan began in 1976 and at present, deep-seawater pumping systems are established in Toyama and Kochi Prefectures and under construction in Shizuoka and Okinawa Prefectures. The research emphasis of many national organizations, prefectures, universities, and private companies is shifting from basic research to feasibility studies or practical applications of deep sea water. For example, in Kochi Prefecture, located in southern Japan, it was found that deep sea water is advantageous in the aquaculture of cold-water species. Current fisheries-related projects include:

• aquaculture (sea vegetables, fishes, shellfish, etc.)
• basic research on deep sea organisms
• restoration of sea grass habitats

A wide range of projects unrelated to fisheries that are utilizing deep sea water to develop new industries and contribute to local economies include:

• the food industry
• medical treatment facilities
• cooling water for power stations
• agriculture of cold climate vegetables

Future investigations should focus on further explorations of deep sea water attributes, a cascade system for using
deep sea water, reduction of costs, and potential environmental impacts.