Hastings earns international recognition for sustainable management of fisheries
07 October 2005
Following a detailed independent scientific assessment, the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) is pleased to announce the Hastings mackerel, herring and Dover sole fisheries have been awarded the MSC certificate for sustainable and well-managed fisheries.
The announcement takes place on the first day of Seafood Week, a UK-wide celebration of seafood and its benefits. See below for the launch timetable and location.
What the MSC says
“This is a major achievement by one of the UK’s most historic fishing towns,” said Rupert Howes, the MSC’s Chief Executive. “By committing to sustainable practices, the fishing community of Hastings has made a farsighted investment in its economic future and the marine environment. Today’s announcement also reflects the growing importance of sustainable practices to today’s environmentally-aware consumers.”
Dover sole, mackerel and herring caught in the Hastings fisheries will now be entitled to carry the MSC eco-label on retail packaging or restaurant menus. The MSC eco-label is an easy and sure way for consumers to know that the fish they buy is from a sustainable source – the best environmental choice in seafood.
Fast facts
· MSC-labelled seafood is available in most major UK supermarkets, including Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose, Asda and Co-Op. Restaurants can also apply to use the MSC eco-label on menus offering seafood from certified fisheries.
· The certification of the Hastings fisheries brings the total number of MSC-certified fisheries worldwide to 14, with another 18 fisheries undergoing full assessment and a further 10 to 20 fisheries in pre-assessment. Together, this represents four percent of the world’s wild seafood catch.
· Certificates are only awarded to fisheries that meet the MSC’s strict environmental standard, based on sustainable fish stocks, a healthy marine environment and effective management.
Further information
For any media inquiries please contact media@msc.org.
