WA celebrates 10 years of commitment to MSC sustainable fisheries
Western Australia’s long-term commitment to sustainable seafood initiatives has seen the WA Fishing Industry Council’s efforts recognised as part of industry celebrations for Sustainable Seafood Week.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development was also honoured by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for its 10-year commitment to sustainability certification.
WA’s sustainable fisheries journey has involved many firsts, including having the first fishery in the world with MSC certification for Western Rock Lobster, and the first-ever joint commercial and recreational fishery certification for Peel-Harvey Blue Swimmer Crabs.
There are now eleven Western Australian fisheries carrying MSC sustainability certification with others currently being assessed.
More than 90 per cent of Western Australia’s seafood, by value, is harvested from the State’s MSC certified fisheries.
MSC is widely recognised as the global gold standard for independent third-party sustainability certification with rigorous requirements based on the three key elements – sustainable fish stocks, effective fisheries management and minimising environmental impact.