Overexploitation of marine life through excessive fishing and practical methods to address this concern
Fishing has been a significant part of human culture for thousands of years, but with the increasing demand for seafood, it's becoming a pressing issue. This ancient practice, first thought to have originated 40,000 years ago, is central to many people's lives and communities. However, as our population grows, so does the pressure on fisheries. The ideal goal for fisheries is to maintain the Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY), but current overfishing is jeopardizing our fish stocks.
According to a recent study, computer models used to set catch limits often overestimate fish populations. This new research indicates that more fish populations have collapsed than the FAO estimate suggests, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding fish stock counts and the need for additional precautions.
The risks of overfishing are particularly high in the high seas, which make up 60% of the ocean that lies beyond national jurisdiction. It's difficult to regulate such a vast expanse of ocean, leaving it vulnerable to exploitation. Unregulated fishing activities are led mainly by major fishing nations such as China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Russia, and certain EU members, particularly Spain.
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea allows countries to exploit Ocean regions within 200 nautical miles of their coast, known as the Economic Exclusion Zone (EEZ). The high seas, in contrast, present a significant challenge due to the lack of regulation and the freedom to engage in fishing granted to any state. Unfortunately, it's companies, not countries, that are often in control of these regions. As a result, illegal fishing, along with legal fishing that fails to adhere to scientific advice, has led to overfishing and declines in species richness.
To help combat overfishing, it's important to make informed choices as consumers. Here are a few steps you can take:
- Check the Certification: The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) is a renowned certification program for wild fisheries. Sustainable fisheries will be awarded an MSC blue badge, indicating their commitment to sustainability. However, it's worth noting that while the MSC blue badge is the world's most widely used certification program, an independent review in 2023 argued that the certification process is insufficient as an indicator of sustainable fishing. Nevertheless, choosing MSC-approved seafood whenever possible will help encourage fisheries to improve their sustainability and meet standards.
- Educate Yourself: The Marine Conservation Society offers the Good Fish Guide, a resource designed to help consumers make ocean-friendly choices. It uses scientific advice on the species and how and where it was caught to inform consumers on the best available options. Similar resources such as Seafood Watch and GoodFish assess U.S. and Australian markets, respectively.
- Choose Your Retailer: Some retailers voluntarily commit to stocking sustainable seafood products. For example, in the UK, M&S has collaborated with the WWF since 2010 to ensure traceability and sustainability in their seafood products. Sainsbury's has won awards for their achievements in sustainable fishing and responsible aquaculture, earning both the MSC and ASC awards in 2023.
By making informed choices, supporting sustainable seafood, and raising awareness, we can help protect our oceans and safeguard the future of our fishing industry. Together, we can ensure that fish remains a delicacy enjoyed by future generations.
- Advocate for Policy Changes: Engage with policymakers and voice your concerns about overfishing. Urge them to strengthen regulations, enforce existing laws, and allocate resources to research and monitoring.
- Support Aquaculture: Aquaculture can help alleviate the pressure on wild fish stocks, but it should be done in a sustainable way. Choose farmed seafood that is responsibly sourced and uses environmentally-friendly practices.
- Promote Biodiversity: Overfishing can lead to a loss of biodiversity in the ocean. Opt for a variety of seafood options to ensure a balanced diet and help maintain marine biodiversity.
- Incorporate Sustainability into Your Lifestyle: Opt for plant-based alternatives when possible and make conscious decisions in other areas of your life, such as home and garden, food and drink, and fitness and exercise, to minimize your environmental footprint.
- Learn Environmental Science: Understanding the intricacies of the ocean and the impacts of human activities is crucial. Increase your knowledge of environmental science to make more informed choices that promote marine conservation.
- Cook Sustainably: Cooking techniques can impact the marine environment. For instance, avoid overfished species and use leftovers to reduce food waste. Plus, a healthier diet benefits both your personal well-being and the environment in the context of climate change, contributing to overall workplace-wellness and lifestyle improvements.
