Done poorly, aquaculture can damage sensitive ecosystems, disrupt communities, and pose a threat to human health. Done well, it can be a force for ecological and social good. Building on decades of experience, this discussion will aim to guide a conversation into the worldwide impacts of sustainable aquaculture production systems to meet the growing demand for sustainable protein while protecting ocean ecosystems. Global and national action is required to ensure that this relatively new sector of our food system can scale to meet growing global food security challenges and human nutritional needs while improving environmental performance.