More Scottish fisheries have applied for assessment under the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) environmental standard for sustainable fishing. The Scottish White Fish Producers Association (SWFPA) North Sea haddock and nephrops (also known as langoustine or Dublin Bay prawns fisheries) will be independently assessed by Moody Marine Ltd. If successful, products from the fisheries – which could include the first MSC Scottish fish and chips and scampi – will be allowed to display the coveted MSC eco-label showing that they come from a sustainable and well-managed fishery.
Haddock and nephrops are two of the most valuable fish in the North Sea for Scottish fishermen. In 2007, the haddock fishery landed fish with a value of around £27.9 million and in 2005, the nephrops fishery landed 15,535 tonnes valued at £38.7 million.
George MacRae from SWFPA says: “SWFPA, with the support of The Scottish Government Marine Directorate (SGMD), Seafood Scotland, Scottish Fishermen’s Organisation, The Food and Drink Federation, Aberdeenshire Council and other organisations representing fishing interests both on and offshore consider that the assessment of two of the most important fish stocks to Scottish fishermen is vital for the future credibility of the industry. MSC accreditation for such stocks will not only answer many of the issues raised particularly by environmentalists in respect of commercial fishing but will also underpin a significant amount of conservation and stock regeneration work undertaken by SWFPA. In addition this accreditation will enhance the marketability of these two top quality fish stocks and enable their nutritional benefit be opened to a much wider range of consumers. SWFPA will also continue to pilot and promote initiatives for commercial fishing as the Association strives to deliver the balanced equation of matching sufficient quota to catch and sufficient time to catch such quota with sensible conservation and stock regeneration issues that are environmentally friendly.”
Rupert Howes, Chief Executive of the MSC, comments: “I am delighted to welcome the SWFPA North Sea haddock and nephrops fisheries into full MSC assessment. This significant development further demonstrates the Scottish fishing industry’s commitment to sustainable fishing. Given the value, tonnage and diversity of species now under assessment in Scotland, the Scottish fishing industry is increasingly well placed to take a leading position in meeting the growing demand for certified sustainable seafood from seafood buyers and consumers around the world.”
