Dr Vassily Spiridonov has joined the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) as its contract representative for the Russian Federation. This new appointment reflects increasing interest from the Russian wild-capture fisheries sector in meeting market demand for independent certification of their products. Based in Moscow, Dr Spiridonov will be working with fisheries managers, fishing and processing companies, scientists and conservation organisations throughout Russia, to help them take part in the MSC certification and ecolabelling program.
Dr. Spiridonov has over 25 years experience in the field of marine biology and ecology. He has held various positions in Russian fisheries management, and previously led the WWF marine program in the Russian federation. As well as working with the MSC, Dr. Spiridonov will continue his active research and teachings in the field of marine biology for the Shirsov institute of Oceanology and as associate lecturer at Moscow University.
Responding to interest from Russian Stakeholders
Camiel Derichs, Deputy Director Europe says:“Russia is an important producer and consumer of wild caught seafood. The interest by Russian fisheries stakeholders in the MSC program has steadily grown, and has now reached a level where the MSC needs capacity on the ground to assist Russian stakeholders in their pursuit of MSC certification. Vassily brings a wealth of knowledge about fisheries and eco-systems, has deep understanding of sustainable exploitation of marine resources, and he has a great network in the Russian fisheries sector. Importantly, he is a passionate supporter of sustainable use of marine resources and I am confident that he will be able to help embed the MSC program in Russia.”
Excited to represent the MSC
Dr. Vassily Spiridonov says:“I’m excited about this opportunity to represent the MSC in Russia. The MSC program has shown tremendous development in recent years, and I believe the time is right to promote certification as a means of securing sustainable production and new markets for the sector here. The MSC standards stimulate improvement in fisheries management around the globe and can provide the same incentives in Russia. The program provides a benchmark for sustainable management and empowers the fishing industry to act responsibly, and to benefit from their efforts in the market place.”
