International seafood ecolabel and sustainability standard, the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), has opened an office in Edinburgh. The new office will allow the MSC to better support the Scottish seafood industry as it moves towards certified sustainability. Over 50% of Scotland’s fisheries are at some stage of the MSC programme, with most of these currently undergoing independent assessment – more than any other European country.
Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead welcomes MSC’s move saying: “I am delighted that MSC is opening an office in Scotland. This comes hot on the heels of our new Conservation Credits scheme, which is a great example of how Scotland’s fishermen are leading the way in the UK and in Europe.
“Today’s announcement by the MSC further underlines the vitality and importance of the Scottish fishing industry and its commitment to securing a sustainable future for our seas. Successful MSC certification will ensure the industry continues to go from strength to strength.”
The MSC’s Scotland & Foodservice Manager, Laura Stewart, who will manage the new office, says: “This is the establishment of a key office in the strategic expansion of the MSC and I am delighted to be representing the MSC in Scotland. I am particularly looking forward to working with our partners all through the supply chain from fishers to restaurants, processors to schools in the promotion of certified sustainable seafood.”
The new office will be at 4th Floor, Thorn House, 5 Rose Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2PR
