The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) has published two new reports which show the progress being made to secure the future of the world’s oceans.
The reports show how commitments by seafood producers, retailers and consumers are delivering lasting improvements to the sustainability of marine ecosystems, fish stocks and fishing communities.
Ten per cent of global wild caught seafood now comes from fisheries engaged in the MSC certification programme and since 1999 more than 220 fisheries have undergone independent assessment of their environmental sustainability. Those achieving MSC certification have made hundreds (575) of improvements to their fishing practices, including measures to reduce unwanted bycatch of endangered species, restore habitat and improve scientific understanding of marine ecosystems. MSC-certified fisheries have also committed to deliver a further 600 improvements by 2020.
The MSC’s Global Impacts Report 2014 and Annual Report 2013-14 show improvements to marine environments being delivered by fisheries engaged in the MSC certification program.
Rupert Howes, Chief Executive for the MSC said: “The MSC’s vision is for the world’s oceans to be teeming with life – today, tomorrow and for future generations. These reports provide evidence that the leadership of our partners is driving real and lasting change in the way our oceans are fished. Stock status of MSC certified fisheries continue to improve, bycatch of unwanted species and seabirds continues to decline and a myriad of wider management improvements have been delivered. Everyone can help to support this positive change by choosing MSC certified sustainable seafood.”
