Explore WWF online Seafood guide www.kojuribukupiti.org
Almost all scientific studies worldwide indicate that we soon might run out of fish which we can catch, farm and eat. An average fish consumption per capita is 20kg – almost twice as much as 50 years ago. It is almost impossible to imagine our diets without fish and the global demand is increasing. Unfortunately, we have already reached the level at which the sea ecosystems and many local communities are endangered, especially in developing countries. The climate change being the first, overfishing has become the second biggest threat to our oceans and seas. The European Union is the main fish and seafood importer. More than half of this amount is imported from Asian, African and other countries where survival of many local communities depends on fisheries. On the global level, fish and seafood are the most traded products!
In the global economy our everyday choices of seafood products largely influence the sea resources and people. Overfishing with the aim of meeting increasing market demands is the serious threat, so the government and fisheries sector are working on its prevention. Meanwhile, as consumers, you do not need to give up on your fried fish. Overfishing can be prevented by responsible consumer behaviour. What you can do is to consciously support sustainable seafood products caught in a way that saves fish stocks and people whose existence depends on fishing. Here is how you can contribute:
BUY ONLY CERTIFIED SEAFOOD PRODUCTS
Look for the organic origin label. The label gives you information about the fish that comes from sustainable fishing or responsible aquaculture.
DO NOT EAT JUVENILE FISH
Fish smaller than the specified size is not fully grown and has not reproduced yet. Ask your fish seller to check if you buy grown up fish. This way you will help to increase the number of fish in the seas.
TRY DIVERSITY
Variety in seafood consumption ensures balanced pressure on sea resources. Increased biodiversity strengthens ecosystems. Introduction of diversity in your diet is amusing and helps the seas and oceans!
CHECK THE LABELS
EU citizens have the legal right to know the full name of the product, its origin, how it is caught or farmed, as well as if it is fresh or frozen. If there is no label, ask. If you do not get the answer, do not buy.