The impact on communities | Marine Stewardship Council

People depend on the fishing industry. Fish is an important source of food and employment.

And for many people around the world, sustainable fishing is a necessity, not a luxury. The alternatives are malnutrition, poverty and hunger. 

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN FAO):

people largely in developing countries, depend on fish as their main source of protein.

Around

people are directly or indirectly employed in the fish and seafood industries.

More than

people engaged in primary sector of wild capture fisheries in 2016.

Over

of the world’s traded seafood comes from developing countries.

Approx.

of world’s fishers live in developing countries and fishing is their major income source.

Sustainable fishing communities

The MSC encourages responsible fisheries management and sustainable practices to protect the future of fishing communities.

By combatting overfishing and illegal fishing we can help protect the livelihoods and vital food security of many worldwide.

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Full shot of fishermen repairing hanging nets with their backs to the camera

Our approach

Our approach means everyone can play a part in that future while enjoying seafood, not avoiding it.

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Coastguard ship (left) out on the ocean, foregrounded by rocks and under a cloudy sky

Overfishing, illegal and destructive fishing

The MSC was formed to address the problem of overfishing. Our program works against illegal and destructive fishing practices.

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Global Impacts 2017

Our Global Impacts Report showcases the progress and improvements delivered by certified fisheries around the world.

Read the report