In the context of growing global food demand and accelerating environmental degradation, farming systems are under increasing pressure to meet sustainability targets. Recent projections suggest that current improvements in agricultural productivity will be insufficient to feed the global population by 2050, potentially leading to unsustainable land expansion and use. Aquaponics represents a promising alternative: an innovative food production system that integrates aquaculture with hydroponics in a closed-loop cycle, where fish waste is biologically converted into nutrients for plant growth, while plants purify the water that can be reused. This integrated approach has the potential to reduce environmental impact and improve resource efficiency. By limiting water consumption, avoiding synthetic fertilizers, and minimizing nutrient runoff, it helps preserving natural capital stocks, soil health, and biodiversity while ensuring the generation of multiple ecosystem services among which water purification and food provisioning. The environmental and social benefits of aquaponics align with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). However, challenges remain regarding scalability, energy use, and economic viability. This study aims at assessing the environmental sustainability of aquaponic systems through the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology. Particular attention is given to critical hotspots such as fish feed composition and water management practices, characterized by high energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions generation. The outcomes are compared with environmental indicators calculated for conventional agricultural and aquacultural systems to evaluate the environmental sustainability of aquaponics. In conclusion, this study highlights the need for assessing the environmental sustainability of alternative food production systems to address food security and sustainability challenges.