On 3rd August 2009, His Royal Highness, The Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay will meet representatives of the Scottish fishing industry in Scrabster, Caithness, on the occasion of the Marine Stewardship Council’s (MSC)] 10th anniversary. In addition to celebrating ten years since the first fishery entered MSC assessment, the event recognises the crucial support and leadership shown by the Scottish fishing industry and the commitment from the Scottish government in working towards a sustainable future for its seafood industry [2].
Earlier this month His Royal Highness met with senior executives of retail and food service companies and others involved in the seafood industry of the UK and mainland Europe. Following this, His Royal Highness was introduced to over 100 leading representatives of the seafood industry and stakeholders of the MSC at a reception to celebrate the partnerships and progress that has helped create a global market for certified sustainable seafood that is now worth more than US$ 1 Billion at retail value.
John Goodlad, Chairman of Scottish Pelagic Sustainability Group (SPSG) [3] says: “We are delighted that His Royal Highness is coming to Scrabster to meet Scottish fishers and supporters of the MSC programme in Scotland. Great strides towards a sustainable future have been made in recent years and we are proud of the number of Scottish fisheries that have demonstrated their sustainability against the MSC programme – they are making a major contribution to tackling the problem of how to provide a better future for UK fisheries and the sustainability of the world’s oceans and seas. “
MSC Chief Executive, Rupert Howes comments: “As the Marine Stewardship Council prepares for the next decade, the support of His Royal Highness and that of all our partners will be invaluable in helping achieve the MSC’s vision of the world’s oceans teeming with life, and seafood supplies safeguarded for this and future generations. ”
Howes continues: “Scottish fisheries are responsible for the majority of seafood landed in the UK and the proportion of Scottish fisheries in the MSC programme – either certified or under assessment – has now risen to over 50% by value, a clear indication of the leadership position taken by the Scottish industry and their determination to demonstrate the sustainability of these fisheries resources to the market.”
