Today the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) announced that Alaska salmon is the first US fishery to be certified as sustainable. Alaska salmon will now be eligible to bear the MSC label, letting consumers know that when they buy MSC labeled seafood, they are supporting healthier oceans and a healthier environment.
The Marine Stewardship Council's globally respected certification program provides its label to fisheries that meet strict, peer-reviewed standards of sustainability. The eco-label allows consumers to quickly identify the best environmental choices in seafood - fish that have not been "overfished" or harvested in ways that harm the ocean ecosystem.
What the Governor of Alaska says
Alaska's Governor, Tony Knowles welcomed the news. "In Alaska, fishing is an inseparable part of our history and culture. It is critical to us that our fish stocks remain in good supply. When consumers buy MSC labeled salmon, they are supporting a sustainable future for fishing in Alaska," he said.
"Consumers have long loved Alaska salmon for its wonderful flavor and heart-healthy omega-3 acids. Now they can appreciate it as the best choice for healthy oceans, too," he added.
Globally, issues of declining fish stocks and damaged marine ecosystems have raised concerns among fishing industries and conservation groups alike. The Marine Stewardship Council is an independent, non-governmental organization, working with fisheries all over the world that are interested in receiving the label as proof to consumers that they are part of the solution.
What the MSC says
Brendan May, Chief Executive of the MSC, said: "The MSC is delighted that Alaska salmon has received certification. With its high-profile and international market penetration, it is the perfect product to carry our eco-label, telling consumers that it is the best environmental choice in seafood. This is a triple victory for Alaska, for the marine environment, and for seafood consumers everywhere".
The MSC's certification program
The MSC program has established three main principles that fisheries must meet before they can be certified as sustainable. First, the fishery must be conducted in a way that does not take more fish than can be replenished naturally or kills other species through harmful fishing practices. Secondly, the fishery must operate in a manner that ensures the health and diversity of the marine ecosystem on which it depends. Finally, the fishery must respect local, national, and international laws and regulations for responsible and sustainable fishing.
To receive MSC certification, a fishery must demonstrate that it meets all three of these conditions, and must submit to an independent, peer-reviewed evaluation of its fisheries management structure, policies, and procedures.