A Blue Food Future
What is sustainability?
Sustainability is about meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Essentially it means keeping natural resources in balance.
When it comes to fishing, sustainable fishing methods respects marine ecosystems and adapts to the reproductive rate of fish to maintain a balance and ensure the survival of all species. For this to happen, fisheries must be managed effectively.
Communities worldwide rely on fishing for their livelihoods and as a vital source of food and nutrition. More than a third of the global population relies on seafood as a source of protein. Unsustainable fishing practices, such as overfishing, unregulated fishing activities and excessive bycatch, are putting our oceans at risk. The long-term health of fish stocks is vital to secure a source of nutrient-rich food to feed a growing population.
Responsibly sourced seafood needs to be caught or farmed in a way that minimizes the impact on fish stocks and the marine environment. It’s not just fish stocks that benefit from a healthy ecosystem, it can also help the ocean regulate the climate. Carbon dioxide from the air dissolves into seawater and is trapped within different elements of the ocean ecosystem, such as seagrass, the shells of molluscs, and plant-like plankton.
Our oceans face a wide range of threats, including climate change, pollution, habitat loss and biodiversity loss. The UN has named unsustainable fishing as the greatest driver of marine biodiversity loss in the world. 94% of global fish stocks are fully or overexploited.
Why we should opt for sustainable seafood?
Currently, 71% of global consumers prioritize sustainability when buying seafood, according to Marine Stewardship Council.
Seafood is a low carbon protein and is one of the best options to reduce the impact our diets have on the environment, thus contribute towards a Blue Food future.
Responsibly sourced fish are often fresher and healthier, as they come from well-managed environments with fewer pollutants.
Sustainable seafood also ensures fair treatment of workers and adherence to regulations that protect both people and the environment.
Climate change is already having a significant impact on our oceans and the health of fish stocks, making sustainable fishing more important than ever.
By choosing sustainable seafood, you play a role in protecting our oceans and promoting healthy, diverse marine life. Being mindful of where your seafood comes from and making informed choices can create a ripple effect that supports conservation efforts globally.
Every time you choose sustainable seafood, you contribute to the preservation of marine ecosystems and ensure that future generations can enjoy the abundance and beauty of our oceans. Choose wisely, eat responsibly, and support a healthier planet!
