The McGowan Government is joining the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to celebrate sustainable seafood, what it means to consumers and how Western Australian commercial and recreational fisheries support local jobs and economic growth.
This year also marks a special milestone for the State, with the State Government honoured by MSC for 10 years of commitment to sustainability certification.
As the leaders in third-party sustainability certification, MSC applies rigorous requirements based on the three key elements of sustainable fish stocks, effective fisheries management and minimising environmental impact.
WA’s sustainable fisheries journey has involved many firsts, including having the first fishery in the world with MSC certification for Western Rock Lobster, and the first-ever joint commercial and recreational fishery certification for Peel-Harvey Blue Swimmer Crabs.
The recognition of former WA fishing industry executive Guy Leyland as the Lifetime Achievement winner in the MSC’s 2022 Sustainable Seafood Awards is yet another important milestone in the State’s pursuit of sustainable fisheries.
As stated by Fisheries Minister Don Punch:
“As we honour our sustainable seafood champions this week, I congratulate Guy Leyland on receiving the prestigious MSC Lifetime Achievement award and for helping create a legacy of sustainable fisheries in WA that we can all enjoy the benefits of.
“The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has continued to work closely with the fishing sectors on sustainable fisheries management since first providing funding to support WA fisheries to undertake independent MSC sustainability assessments a decade ago.
“Ten years ago, Western Rock Lobster was the only MSC certified fishery in WA. It now shares the sustainability stage with 10 other fisheries and we now have more than 90 per cent of the value of our State’s fisheries certified as sustainable.
“We are proud to join MSC’s Fish Forever campaign and celebrate sustainable seafood.”
