Two new reports published today by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) show the progress being made to secure the future of the world’s oceans, and a plentiful supply of seafood for generations to come.
With 29% of the world’s oceans currently overfished1, 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.
Hundreds of improvements by certified fisheries
10% of global wild caught seafood now comes from fisheries engaged in the MSC’s rigorous, scientific program for ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine ecosystems. 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.
Increased consumer demand and commitment to sustainable seafood
As a result of increased consumer demand and greater commitment to sustainability by the fishing industry and retailers, the number of MSC-labelled products has more than doubled over the past five years. In 2013-14 the retail market value of sustainable seafood carrying the MSC ecolabel reached US$4.8 billion, an increase of 118 per cent since 2009. More than 23,000 products from MSC certified fisheries were available in over 100 countries, a tenfold increase since 2009.
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. These changes are often incentivised by increased market demand and, in some cases, a price premium for sustainable seafood.
Seafood's global importance
Seafood accounts for almost 17% of the global population’s intake of animal protein2 and supports the livelihoods of around 10% of the world’s population3. Safeguarding the world’s oceans is essential if we are to maintain healthy fish populations, economies and ecosystems.
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.”