Preserving the ocean’s vital food resources with sustainable fishing

With roughly 61.8 million people worldwide earning their livelihood from fishing, it’s easy to see why our industry plays a vital role in global food security and economic stability.

Oceans cover nearly 71% of our planet and are home to some of the most diverse ecosystems on earth. Therefore, as fishers, we hold a unique responsibility: not only must we help feed a growing world, but we must also protect this vast, extraordinary environment so that future generations can continue to benefit from these vital resources.

Thriving seas, thriving shores 

Marine industries are as diverse as the life beneath the waves: marine transport, tourism, offshore energy and, of course, fishing itself. Marine shipping alone accounts for a substantial portion (approximately 90%) of global trade, totalling trillions of dollars annually.

Ocean tourism is another trillion-dollar sector contributing substantially to economic growth, especially in coastal regions that attract visitors with their beautiful beaches and abundant marine life. Offshore energy, including wind and deepwater energy facilities, significantly contributes to economic resilience. Meanwhile, the global fishing industry, valued at over $220 billion annually, supports a vast number of coastal communities worldwide.

Casting nets sustainably

It’s clear to us, as fishers and ocean stakeholders, that marine health directly supports economic vitality. With coastal regions heavily reliant on productive waters for food and employment, maintaining a healthy aquatic environment is a crucial part of our daily operations.

However, we also know that our oceans aren’t invincible. Threats such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change can impact marine ecosystems and have ripple effects that extend far beyond the shoreline. That’s why the marine industry has a responsibility to protect the long-term ecological balance and encourage sustainable practices that preserve the health of our oceans while supporting economic prosperity.

A food source for the future

Fish are not only delicious; they’re also highly nutritious. Over 3 billion people globally depend on seafood as their primary source of protein. As global populations continue to rise — projected to hit around 9.7 billion by 2050 — the importance of sustainable seafood becomes increasingly apparent. Fish, predominantly pelagic species, provide accessible, nutritious food rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, offering significant health benefits, particularly in developing nations.

Protecting ocean ecosystems means protecting this vital food source. Adopting sustainable practices today ensures future generations continue to enjoy nutritious seafood meals tomorrow.

A commitment to sustainability

In the UK, our fishing industry leads the world in responsibly managed fisheries, with sustainability built into every step of operations. Scientific research guides quotas and fishing practices, with annual Total Allowable Catches (TACs) carefully recommended by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES), ensuring our fishing activities align closely with healthy ecosystem limits.

But sustainability isn’t just about quotas and careful management. We also invest heavily in innovative technologies designed to reduce environmental impacts. Modern fishing vessels now use lighter, more selective nets, real-time fuel monitoring systems, and advanced imaging technologies, all designed to reduce energy emissions and protect marine biodiversity. These technologies help fishers minimise bycatch and preserve ocean habitats, keeping ecosystems balanced and thriving.

Sailing towards a bright future

The ocean may seem endless, but its resources have clear limits. By championing sustainable seafood practices, supporting cutting-edge research, and carefully managing marine ecosystems, the fishing industry can continue to meet global nutritional needs without harming long-term ocean health.

As we look to the future, collaboration across industries, scientific communities, and conservation efforts will be critical. Sustainable fishing isn’t simply about keeping the industry prosperous — it’s about ensuring that generations to come still benefit from flourishing marine environments teeming with life and offering bountiful, nutritious food.

Together, we can continue to cast a vision for sustainability, ensuring healthy oceans and vibrant coastal communities for future generations.