Showcasing Australia’s excellence in fisheries management, two more of our Commonwealth fishery operators are now in the final stages of independent certification by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).
Petuna Sealord Deepwater Fishing fishing for Australian blue grenadier, in the AFMA managed Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery; and Walker Seafood Australia fishing for albacore, yellowfin tuna and swordfish, in the AFMA managed Eastern Tuna and Billfish Fishery currently have draft reports out for final public comment.
The global MSC certification sustainable seafood program aims to contribute to the health of the world’s oceans by recognising and rewarding sustainable fishing practices and ultimately ensuring the world’s oceans teeming with life, and seafood supplies for current and future generations.
The certification process involves independent assessment against three core principles:
- sustainable fish stocks
- minimising environmental impact
- effective management.
Australia already has seven MSC certified fisheries. In fact, an Australian fishery was the first in the world to receive this independent certification – a testament to the hard work of industry and our nation’s fisheries regulators.
Recognising the work of AFMA in sustainable fisheries management, MSC’s draft report for Walker Seafood certification, highlights that, the key strengths of the Walker Seafood’s operation derive from the strong and precautionary Australian fisheries management framework, as well as the good relationship and level of consultation between AFMA and the industry.
The certification process is expected to be finalised in the coming months.
For more information visit www.msc.org.