The voluntary scheme, which was launched by Seafish in May 2006 and is part-funded by the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance (FIFG), has so far seen 23 vessels become fully certified. The vessels range from pelagic trawlers in the north east of Scotland to specialist sardine netters in Cornwall.
The scheme is receiving new enquiries every week and a further 100 vessels are currently undergoing accreditation. A flurry of applications in recent weeks will see this number soar even further.
The aim of the independently accredited scheme is to drive up standards by demonstrating the industry’s commitment to the responsible sourcing of seafood.
Amongst the latest applications is an entire fleet of scallopers working in Falmouth Bay, Cornwall. These inshore ‘day boats’ are being helped by their key customer, Falfish, who support their desire to deliver the highest quality seafood; whilst at the same time being fully committed to the principles of responsible fishing.
Mark Greet, Managing Director of Falfish, said: “It’s important that the whole industry works together to support responsible fishing, and it’s great to see that Cornwall is leading the way in this area.
“The efforts and high quality operation of the inshore fleet operating from Falmouth and nearby ports deserve to achieve recognition for their responsible approach to the scallop fishery.”
Another strong supporter is Interfish in Plymouth, who have four vessels in the scheme with a further two due for audit in February.
Andrew Pillar, Fleet Manager, said: “The modern seafood consumer now wants to know the product they buy is not just fresh and of high quality, but is being caught responsibly and with consideration for the marine environment. Interfish skippers and crew are proud to be achieving this through the Seafish Responsible Fishing Scheme.”
Vessels engaged in the Scottish langoustine fishery in the north east of Scotland are also being supported by their main customer who is keen to source from vessels committed to the principles of responsible fishing.
Independent accreditation schemes such as the Responsible Fishing Scheme are becoming increasingly important in the seafood industry, with major buyers such as Marks & Spencer announcing their intention to source all seafood from independently accredited resources by 2012.
John Rutherford, Seafish chief executive, said: “Every day more catchers are realising that accreditation through the Responsible Fishing Scheme not only assists them in improving their operational standards on their vessels, but also provides them with an assurance to their customers of their responsible fishing practices.”
