Prince Madog, the research vessel of School of Ocean Science, had made a trip recently with more researchers to study different aspects of fish sourcing. Ship, staff and guests of the School of Ocean Sciences were invited to London to help launch a new responsible sourcing strategy for all fish products in Co-op brand food ranges.
It is said that the Co-op is also committing £200,000 over two years to support fisheries in attaining Marine Stewardship Council certification. For advice and guidance in setting up the new policy the Co-op had turned to Mike Kaiser, Professor of Marine Conservation Ecology at the School of Ocean Sciences. Professor Kaiser is an authority on sustainable fisheries and is a Board member of Seafish, a public body which promotes and supports the seafood industry.
According to Prof Kaiser they are keen to support the event because of what the Co-op and others are doing to promote sustainable fishing practices. He added that they were delighted to offer our expertise on fisheries related issues to help the Co-op achieve its goal. He told that the Co-op are investing money to encourage more fisheries to apply for certification from the Marine Stewardship Council, an organisation that sets the highest standards for qualification as a sustainable fishery.
Prof Kaiser believes that Co-op’s policy would make a big difference to UK fishing. After working for 17 years in this research area Prof Kaiser have seen an incredibly positive change in the behaviour of fishermen in the UK. It is said that fishermen will be rewarded for landing fewer but better quality fish, and in the long-term this means healthier seas and fish stocks. The University was able to assist the Co-Op realize their aspirations through advice and expertise.
