What is Eco-Certification
Eco Certification
Eco-certification for fisheries is a formal recognition that a fishery operates in an environmentally responsible and sustainable way, based on independent assessment against defined standards.
MSC Eco-certification
MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) eco-certification is a globally recognized standard for sustainable, well-managed wild-capture fisheries. When a fishery earns MSC certification, it means:
Certification is based on independent, science-based assessments against the MSC Fisheries Standard. Only seafood that meets this high bar can carry the blue MSC label—trusted by consumers, retailers, and seafood buyers worldwide. By choosing MSC-certified products, you’re supporting a future where oceans are teeming with life and seafood is available for generations to come.
How does certification work?
To become certified, a fishery undergoes a rigorous third-party assessment by independent auditors to assess if they meet the fishery standard. This includes in-depth analysis of scientific data and local knowledge, site visits, and consultation with stakeholders like scientists, managers, and local communities. If the fishery meets the standard, it’s certified for five years, with annual audits to ensure continued performance and improvements where needed.
Eco-Label use
Once the fishery is certified, fish products coming from that fishery are eligible to use the MSC ecolabel. To use the MSC label, every company in the supply chain, from the fishery to the final retailer, must have an MSC Chain of Custody certification. This ensures that:
- Certified seafood is kept separate from non-certified products
- It is traceable back to a certified fishery
- Consumers can trust the label.
- Both fisheries and supply chain companies are audited regularly to ensure they continue to meet the standards. Certification is valid for 5 years, with annual surveillance audits.
Consumers can look for the MSC ecolabel when purchasing fish products.
