Why fish is a climate-smart protein

As the global conversation around food sustainability grows louder, one question keeps surfacing: how do we feed a rapidly growing world without further damaging our planet?

The answer might already be swimming in the North Atlantic.

Wild-caught pelagic fish, like herring and blue whiting, are low in carbon, high in nutritional value, and naturally abundant – making them a compelling climate-smart protein solution.

The carbon case for fish

When it comes to carbon footprint, wild-caught pelagic fish stand out as one of the most environmentally responsible proteins available.

That’s because they require no artificial feeding, no freshwater supply, and no land clearance. They grow, feed, and thrive entirely within their natural ocean environment, meaning the carbon cost of bringing them to the table is remarkably low. Research suggests that wild-caught fish produce as little as 1-2kg of CO₂ equivalent per kg of protein, highlighting just how little these species demand of our planet’s resources.

This is good news not just for the environment, but for the future of global food supply too. The EAT-Lancet Commission on Food, Planet, Health identifies sustainably sourced seafood as a key component of a diet that can feed 10 billion people within planetary boundaries. In other words, science is already pointing us toward the ocean.

A nutritional powerhouse with a light footprint

The climate credentials of pelagic fish are matched by their extraordinary nutritional value. A 150g portion can supply 50-60% of an adult’s daily protein requirement, alongside essential long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), vitamin D, riboflavin, iron, and calcium.

Despite these benefits, Omega-3s remain under-consumed, so pelagic fish can improve public health at scale in many regions. Pelagic fish is affordable, accessible, and low in environmental impact, making it a smart, sustainable choice.

Global fish consumption is projected to reach 21.4 kg per capita by 2031 (up from 20.5 kg in 2019–2021), meaning demand for this climate-smart protein will only grow. This rising appetite reflects what nutritionists and food security experts have long argued: fish is an essential, irreplaceable part of a healthy, sustainable diet. UK consumers still overlook pelagic species, so there is a great opportunity for more people to try these different fish, aided by greater public awareness of the many options available.

NAFCO’s role in global food security

At North Atlantic Fishing Company (NAFCO), we’ve spent over 40 years working at the intersection of sustainable fishing and global food security.

Almost all of our catch is for human consumption. Each year, we provide about 285 million meals globally, supporting access to high-quality protein.

The scale of the global need is significant. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) estimates that over three billion people rely on seafood as a primary source of protein. As the global population climbs towards 9.7 billion by 2050, sustainably managed fisheries will play an increasingly critical role in meeting that need.

Our vessels operate year-round, ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of fish regardless of season. By making fewer, longer trips each year, they maximise fuel economy and reduce emissions. By processing and freezing at sea, we maintain quality from the moment of catch through to the point of consumption, wherever in the world that may be.

We know how important it is to ensure our operations help maintain the health of the marine ecosystem. Our mid-water trawling methods mean our nets never touch the seabed, ensuring no disturbance to ocean floor habitats, and bycatch levels across our operations are less than 1%. We fish exclusively for our four target species from well-managed, sustainable stocks, and operate strictly within scientifically determined quotas set each year.

Protecting fish stocks and supporting global food security go hand in hand. Healthy, well-managed fisheries are the foundation of a reliable, long-term protein supply – for this generation and the next.

The climate-smart choice

Wild-caught pelagic fish is not just a healthy choice, it’s a climate-conscious choice.

No deforestation. No freshwater depletion. No artificial feed inputs. Just responsibly managed, naturally abundant fish, harvested with precision and care.

We believe the ocean, when managed wisely, is one of our greatest resources in the fight against food insecurity. As more people become aware of how food choices influence our planet’s future, there’s never been a better time to put pelagic fish at the centre of the conversation.

Next time you visit the fish counter, why not try a new type of fish? Your health, and the planet, might just thank you for it.