The basis for incorporating new scientific knowledge and management changes into MSC requirements

Introduction

The MSC recently published its ‘Theory of Change,’ describing the way the standards and ecolabelling program are designed to work together to generate improvements in the way the oceans are fished and therefore achieve the MSC’s vision.

As yet, the basis for making changes to standards and scheme requirements in relation to changes in scientific understanding and global fisheries management practices has not been described. The Theory of Change provides a sound framework to support this development.

Objectives

The objective of this consultation was to get stakeholder views on the circumstances under which MSC should undertake to change our standards or performance requirements. This will help to ensure MSC has a clear idea of the relationship our standard should have to changing science and global best practice in fisheries management, and to preserve the relevance of the MSC in the longer term. 

Results of the consultation

Comments were received by a range of stakeholders, who were generally supportive of the proposal and who provided useful input into the types of processes and criteria appropriate for substantive changes to scheme requirements.

MSC provides specific responses via email to consultees on comments received.

Next steps

MSC will publish as an addition to the Theory of Change, or as a standalone document, the general criteria and process by which changes to standards and scheme requirements will be undertaken. 

Further information

Please direct any enquiries to:
David Agnew
david.agnew@msc.org
+44 207 246 8949