It’s not long until World Oceans Day on 8 June and we are gearing up to remind ourselves and others about the major role the oceans have in everyday life.
At the MSC, we are passionate about doing our bit for the oceans. You too can play your part and make a difference. Here are five things you can do right now to join the global movement to protect the oceans and ensure sustainable seafood supplies for the future. Are you ready to get on board?
1. Shop for sustainable seafood
What better day than World Ocean Day to make a commitment to buy MSC certified sustainable seafood when doing your shopping. So when you next visit your local store, fishmonger or supermarket just look for the blue fish tick label. This tells you the wild fish or seafood comes from fisheries that have been certified to the MSC Fisheries Standard, a set of rigorous requirements for sustainable fishing. Your action will have a huge impact on our oceans, which feed billions of people, cover over 70% of the planet and provide 80% of the world's biodiversity.
2. Get creative in the kitchen
Why not use World Ocean Day to host a sustainable seafood lunch or dinner party (COVID-compliant, of course)? How about a menu of Maldivian tuna and coconut roti bread followed by tomato, ricotta and roasted hake tart? Or maybe a barbecue? Our Fish Forever Cookbook is full of delicious recipes made with sustainable seafood by award-winning chefs. 'Breaking bread' (and fish) together is a great opportunity to introduce your friends and family to our core mission of looking after our oceans and to talk about your own commitment to sustainable seafood.
3. Read, watch and learn about sustainable fisheries
Use our accessible and in-depth education resources to teach others and learn about how we can all play a role in keeping our oceans healthy for generations to come. Whether you’re a teacher, parent or child, the best way to understand the impact of the MSC’s work is to hear first-hand from those directly involved in the Program. On our website, you can read beautifully crafted rich-media stories about real-life communities whose livelihoods depend on fishing and hear from passionate people taking care of our oceans.
4. Stay informed and inspired
Sign up to one of our regular newsletters and follow the MSC on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter and we’ll keep you up to date on the latest ocean news, stories, reports, recipes and more. There are a handful of newsletters to choose from, depending on your interests, including a monthly global consumer newsletter featuring the top stories from the MSC website, and a weekly MSC Fisheries Updates on the latest certifications and assessments taking place. You can help to create a wave of support by encouraging your friends and family members to sign up too.
5. Upgrade your social posts
Coming soon! Cast yourself away in an exotic location complete with a plate of delicious seafood by using our cool custom-made MSC filter. Choose one of the landmark seaside locations from this year’s campaign film as your backdrop and something fishy to eat: some grilled sardines fresh off the backyard barbecue, perhaps, or locally caught fish pan-fried at a cute spot on the beach? Animations add a playful finishing touch. It’s a great way to have some fun sharing our message. Follow us on Instagram @MSCbluefishtick to find out more.
