There is often discussion in the media about sustainable fishing, but what is it really about? Havn’t we been eating fish and seafood for thousands of years? Of course, but the demand for seafood has doubled in the last thirty years, taking fishing to an often unsustainable level. Sustainable fishing is therefore about making sure that there are still fish and other seafood products in the seas for future generations.
In addition to maintaining fish stocks, sustainable fishing is also about ensuring that fishing does not negatively impact other marine life and habitats, again helping to promote the chance of seafood still being available and also to make sure that these delicate ecosystems are not damaged or destroyed.
There are many charities which aim to promote sustainable fishing, such as the Marine Conservation Society in the UK. This organisation promotes awareness of sustainable fishing and has its own set of principles about sustainable fish farming.
If you wish to purchase seafood from sustainable sources, you need to look out for the Marine Stewardship Council logo. This indicates that the fishery has been certified by them and keeps to their three main principles. These include making sure that there is enough fish, that marine habitat is not affected and that management systems are in place to ensure the ongoing sustainability of an operation.
Sustainable fishing is an important environmental issue. Not only does it affect fish stocks and other marine life, but also the livelihoods of millions of people around the world. So next time you buy seafood, make sure it is from a sustainable source.
