
The Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries celebrates 25th anniversary
In 2018, mankind set a new record: global fish production reached about 179 million tonnes, 87% of which was consumed by humans. This is equivalent to an annual supply of 20.5 kg per capita. This number is estimated to grow by one kg in the next decade. In order to supply this high demand, the modern fishery must comply with certain rules, such as intelligent management, scientific approach, transparency of international markets. These are key principles to support sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Twenty-five years ago, they were arranged into the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.
Alexander Bonk, head of the Department of Marine Resources, Fisheries and Aquaculture of Kamchatka State Technical University, supported the idea:
According to FAO’s The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture report, the world catches of Alaska pollock ranked second, following anchoveta and followed by skipjack tuna. Russia is among the other six countries which produce half of the world seafood products.
The Code is not a binding instrument, however, the states, which adopted it, use the Code’s principles as a foundation for their fishery policy. Although, the general public and average fishermen do not know much about the Code, the international agreements and the legislation within the country are based on the Code’s principles either directly or indirectly.
Konstantin Zgurovsky is sure:
According to the experts, the Code is still relatable today. Alexander Bonk persuades that the students of his university who decided to bind their lives with ichthyology study the Code generally. And Konstantin Zgurovsky reminds: