Aker BioMarine dedicated five days this year to conducting research in on krill distribution and predator impacts as a result of its agreement with WWF Norway.
The environmental group and the world’s largest krill processing company began working together in 2006 to influence other krill fishing companies and to establish ‘best practices’ in this relatively new Southern Ocean fishery.
WWF Norway and Aker BioMarine (and Aker Seafoods) joined forces by way of a formal co-operation agreement to ensure that the fishery is sustainable and environmentally friendly in this fragile biorealm.
According to WWF Norway, there are three main areas for co-operation:
- Sustainable harvesting of fish and krill;
- Combating illegal fishing; and
- Traceability of fishing products.
The deal provides WWF with financial support for its conservation work while Aker gets a partner who can contribute towards the company meeting its objective of sustainable harvesting of natural resources such as cod, blue whiting and krill.
“WWF believes business is part of the problem and part of the solution,” said Nina Jensen, WWF Norway. “By working with proactive companies like Aker BioMarine, we believe we can achieve greater conservation results in the Southern Ocean through constructive dialogue and by finding – and promoting – the right solutions.”
She said that through the partnership with WWF, Aker BioMarine is doing all the right things: 100% observer coverage, vessel monitoring systems (VMS), real-time catch reporting, contributing to research by allowing onboard scientists – at no cost – and greatly contributing to the establishment of a science fund.
“They are operating with zero bycatch of seabirds, penguins and marine mammals,” Jensen said.
As a result of the partnership with WWF and Aker BioMarine’s MSC certification, the company has started an extensive mapping of fish larval bycatch in the Southern Ocean with UK-based Marine Resources & Fisheries Consultants (MRAG).
Aker has also invited all operators to a joint industry association to ensure sustainable development of the fishery, and to contribute to science and monitoring of the fishery.
