The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), a global non-profit dedicated to combatting overfishing through the establishment of leading sustainability standards, has unveiled a landmark report showcasing two decades of positive environmental impact in Australian fisheries since 2000.
The “Fishing for the Future Report” is the first of its kind, offering a comprehensive analysis of the environmental strides made by fisheries opting for assessment against the MSC Fisheries Standard. The report highlights a collaborative effort, with over 116 improvements related to bycatch, ecosystem impact, and effective management, setting a precedent for responsible practices globally.
In Australia, the achievements are remarkable, with 28 MSC-certified fisheries representing 38 species, constituting 52% of the total volume of wild-caught seafood. This surpasses the MSC’s global goal for over a third of the global marine catch (by volume) to be MSC certified or engaged by 2030. Notably, Australia boasts the world’s first and longest MSC-certified fishery, the WA Rock Lobster fishery.
With 80% of the planet’s biodiversity residing in the ocean and fishing emerging as a primary threat, sustainable practices are crucial for meeting global dietary needs and reducing environmental impact. The engagement of governments, environmental NGOs, and industry bodies in the MSC program emphasizes a commitment to responsible practices.
Anne Gabriel, MSC Program Director of Oceania and Singapore, emphasizes the importance of sustainable fishing practices in Australia, stating, “As the third-largest marine jurisdiction globally, Australians have an accountability to ensure our ocean is conserved and managed with care.”
Gabriel hopes the 2023 Future of Fishing report will showcase the tangible outcomes of sustainable fishing in Australia, underlining the necessity of leadership and collaboration for continuous improvement.
While the MSC’s positive trend reflects progress, Gabriel encourages broader stakeholder participation, urging businesses, consumers, seafood brands, suppliers, retailers, caterers, restaurants, airlines, cruise/shipping companies, and pet food brands to contribute. She hopes the report demonstrates what is possible when fisheries commit to an international science-based benchmark for sustainable fishing.
Fisheries voluntarily undergo assessment by a third party, Conformity Assessment Body, against the MSC Fisheries Standard, ensuring independence from the certification process. Consumers can easily support sustainable seafood by looking for the MSC blue fish tick label on over 370 products in Australia.
Source: Food & Beverage Industry News
