Marine Conservation Society downgrades sustainability ratings for hake and coley
The Marine Conservation Society downgraded European hake from green to amber due to declining stocks and increased fishing pressure.
In Brief
- •The Marine Conservation Society downgraded European hake from green to amber due to declining stocks and increased fishing pressure.
- •Coley caught around the UK has been downgraded from amber to red, meaning it is a fish to avoid.
- •The charity suggests wild-caught sea bass as a more ocean-friendly alternative to cod.
- •UK Atlantic bluefin tuna has been rated green, showing signs of population recovery.
- •Lyme Bay disco-pot scallops have been given an amber rating for their new, low-impact fishing technology.
Why It Matters
The Marine Conservation Society's Good Fish Guide helps consumers and businesses make sustainable seafood choices. The downgrades highlight the need for diversifying seafood choices and avoiding those most under threat. This is particularly important given that most seafood consumed in the UK comes from just a few species, putting significant pressure on wild stocks.
Key Details
- Hake Rating Change
- Green to Amber
- Coley Rating Change
- Amber to Red
- Sea Bass Suggestion
- Wild-caught sea bass as a cod alternative
- Bluefin Tuna Rating
- New Green Rating
- Disco-pot Scallops Rating
- Amber
Context & Background
Cod populations have been in decline since 2015 due to overfishing and other ecosystem pressures. The Marine Conservation Society's Good Fish Guide uses a traffic-light system to rate seafood based on the health of fish stocks and environmental impact.
Original Reporting & Sources
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