The practice of landfilling fish waste at the Great Lakes has effectively ended, says the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers (GSGP).
A total of 44 companies has now signed the 100% Great Lakes Fish Pledge, committing to productively using all parts of the fish they handle, including heads, guts, skin and scales. Collectively, these companies represent more than 30 million pounds of fish annually – around 90% of the Great Lakes commercial catch by volume.
“This milestone reflects the leadership of companies across the Great Lakes seafood value chain who are proving that full fish utilisation is practical,” said David Naftzger, executive director of the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors & Premiers.
“By working to use more of each fish, these organisations are reducing waste, strengthening their businesses and helping open new markets for Great Lakes-sourced products.”
GSGP’s 100% fish initiative is also helping unlock higher-value markets for these previously-discarded materials, including fish leather, meal, oil and other products.
According to GSGP, this approach boosts revenue, creates new jobs and supports rural economic development, while simultaneously reducing emissions and strengthening the resilience of Great Lakes fisheries.
Looking ahead to 2026, GSGP plans to continue expanding participation in the pledge, with a focus on aquaculture companies and fish cleaning stations.
“Healthy, well-managed fisheries are the foundation of the Great Lakes fishery,” said Marc Gaden, executive secretary of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission. “Seeing industry leaders commit to full utilisation shows how sustainability and economic opportunity can move forward together.”
