WWF-SASSI updates guide for sustainable seafood

Using an internationally accepted best practise framework, the list enables consumers to make more informed seafood choices, based on the best scientific data. This data follows one year of extensive expert and stakeholder consultation.

Signs of recovery

Previously classified as 'orange', hottentot caught in the traditional linefishery has moved on to the 'green' list while longline hake retains its orange-listing. This can be attributed to key management and ecological concerns within the fishery. Despite this, hake stocks continue to show signs of improvement as a result of the long-term recovery plan for the fishery.

WWF-SASSI manager, Janine Basson explains, "These two examples show how making difficult management decisions can have positive effects on the sustainability status of important marine resources. This includes the decision to substantially decrease the fishing effort in the traditional linefishery after the declaration of a national state of emergency in 2000."

West Coast rock lobster under threat

The revised list sees the South African West Coast rock lobster (WCRL) drop from the 'green' list to the 'orange' list. This is largely because the stock is at only 3% of its pre-exploitation levels and is further threatened by rampant poaching. The SASSI External Review Panel was encouraged by the Department of Agriculture, Forest and Fisheries' recent commitment to return to the broadly agreed-upon operational management procedure for the sector, which includes a recovery plan for WCRL.

Basson adds, "DAFF's recovery plan for the WCRL served to avert its red-listing. However, if the recovery plan is not fully implemented and does not include addressing illegal, unreported and unregulated catches of WCRL, a red-listing will be likely."

"The long-term survival and recovery of both the WCRL resource and the coastal communities which rely on it, is dependent on all fishery stakeholders taking on a shared responsibility to ensure this resource is effectively managed," cautions Basson.

Commit to a green choice

Basson elaborates, "The sustainable and responsible management of South Africa's marine resources needs evidence-based decision making. This assessment process has shown how the lack of an observer programme and regular at-sea enforcement as well as inconsistent biomass surveys can negatively impact the sustainable management of our fisheries."

Basson concludes, "Those wanting to support responsible procurement practices in the South African seafood industry can use the WWF-SASSI list to base their seafood choice on (obtainable via FishMS, mobi site, and free Blackberry and iOS app). Support retailers that have made public commitments to seafood sustainability and continue to hold them accountable to these commitments. You have a choice. Make it green."

For further information, go to www.wwf.org.za.