The 100% Great Lakes Fish initiative has been honoured with a Seafood Industry Climate Award (SICA) for its groundbreaking efforts in reducing the seafood industry’s carbon footprint and increasing diversity.
Spearheaded by the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors and Premiers (GSGP), the three-year old endeavour was awarded a $70,000 grant at the Seafood Expo North America conference to further its mission.
“On behalf of the 100% Fish Pledge initiative, we thank the Acme Smoked Fish Foundation for the Seafood Industry Climate Award recognition,” said David Naftzger, executive director of GSGP.
“For a nascent initiative to receive this type of recognition is very encouraging for us as it indicates we are on the right path toward reducing waste while maximizing the value of our region’s fish resources.”
The SICA award is given to initiatives that demonstrate a measurable impact on reducing carbon emissions, have clear goals and focus on promoting diversity within the industry.
The 100% Great Lakes Fish initiative meets these criteria by encouraging companies to commit to using 100% of the fish they process, raise or handle. This initiative has already attracted seven aquaculture companies and approximately 30 fish processors, covering about 90% of the Great Lakes’ commercial catch.
Currently, only about 40% of the fish is consumed, with the rest often discarded or used cheaply. By finding innovative ways to use the entire fish, the initiative aims to reduce waste, create jobs and promote rural economic development.
