The Marine Stewardship Council and Climate Change

ASOC's major overarching concern about the MSC fisheries certifications is the lack of reference to climate change in the MSC methodology.  Not only are parts of Antartica warming faster than the rest of the world, but there is substantial evidence that both toothfish and krill are especially vulnerable to warming temperatures.  Though it is good that MSC methodology includes indicators that ensure that the health of the entire ecosystem is protected, fishing is not the only factor in the health of a species and its ecosystem that fisheries management must consider if catch limits are to be set at sustainable levels.  ASOC has written to the MSC about these concerns.  Read our letter and their response.