MSC: Consumers Play Key Role in Maintaining Fishery Sustainability
Bogor (ANTARA) - The global non-profit organisation Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) believes that consumers play a vital role in maintaining fisheries sustainability through the seafood products they consume daily.
Senior Commercial Communications Officer for MSC Indonesia, Usmarol Anggita, stated in a written statement received in Bogor, West Java, on Wednesday, that consumers can drive positive change in the fisheries sector by choosing seafood products sourced from responsibly managed origins.
This message was delivered in conjunction with the 2026 World Ocean Day commemorations, amidst increasing public attention towards ocean health alongside a continued low level of understanding regarding sustainable fishery resource management.
“Every seafood product has a story behind it. When consumers choose MSC-labelled seafood, they are supporting fisheries that have met strict sustainability standards to maintain fish stock health, minimise impacts on marine ecosystems, and ensure these resources remain available for future generations,” said Anggi.
According to her, the increasing availability of sustainable seafood products in Indonesia indicates that more businesses are responding to consumer demand for more responsible products.
“World Ocean Day serves as a reminder that protecting the ocean is not just the responsibility of those who work at sea. Consumers also have a crucial role. Through the choices we make every day, we can be part of the solution to maintain the sustainability of Indonesia’s marine resources,” she added.
These findings align with the results of a global survey initiated by the MSC and conducted by the independent research firm GlobeScan, involving over 31,000 respondents across 23 countries. The survey shows that a portion of the public still holds misconceptions regarding the ocean and fisheries management.
As many as 35 per cent of respondents believe that fish populations will never recover from overfishing, while 26 per cent expressed uncertainty. However, the latest MSC report, titled ‘Fishing for the Future’, demonstrates that fish stocks can recover when science-based management is consistently applied.
One example is the Iberian sardine fishery, managed jointly by Portuguese and Spanish fishermen. Through the implementation of an effective management plan, the sardine population in 2025 was recorded to be almost four times larger than it was a decade ago.
Another example is the Eastern Atlantic bluefin tuna, which was on the brink of collapse at the end of the 20th century. Thanks to the implementation of management measures and long-term commitments from various nations, tuna stocks have now recovered to their highest levels since the 1960s.
MSC Chief Executive Rupert Howes stated that the organisation’s experience working with various fisheries worldwide shows that the recovery of marine resources is still achievable.
“Our collaboration with various fisheries around the world demonstrates that although the challenges faced are immense, recovery remains possible. With science-based management, strong collaboration, and long-term commitment, marine resources can be managed sustainably,” said Howes.
As part of the 2026 World Ocean Day campaign, MSC Indonesia is partnering with several partners to increase public awareness regarding the importance of sustainable seafood, including activities such as a Tuna Cutting Show with Ranch Market, as well as talk shows and cooking demonstrations with IKEA Food Indonesia.
MSC hopes that increased consumer awareness can drive more responsible fishing practices, thereby providing benefits for the environment, coastal communities, and future generations.