Oceans are essential to life on Earth. They cover more than 70% of the planet's surface, regulate the climate, and supply the oxygen we need to survive.
34.2%
overfished
They are also home to an extraordinary variety of life. Much of this life is essential to sustain people’s livelihoods and ensure food security as millions rely on fish as their primary source of protein.
49%
The stakes are high when we consider how intrinsically linked the health of our oceans is to our environmental, social and economic wellbeing.
According to the United
The size of marine populations has declined by almost half (49%) between 1970 and 2012 according to WWF’s Living Blue Planet Report 2015
Key factors
What is the MSC doing?
For over 20 years, we have been working with fisheries, seafood companies and scientists to help protect the oceans around us, and safeguard seafood supplies.By choosing seafood products with the blue MSC ecolabel you are directly supporting fishers that take care of our oceans and encouraging others to do the same.
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Our approach
Our approach means everyone can play a part in that future while enjoying seafood, not avoiding it.

The impact on communities
Fish is an important source of food and income for communities around the world. For many people, sustainable fishing is a necessity, not a luxury.

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