Advancing Humane Practices in Marine Capture Fisheries: A Pathway to Sustainable and Equitable Ocean-Based Food Systems

Each year, an estimated 2 to 3 trillion aquatic animals are captured and killed for human consumption, a figure that surpasses the total number of farmed land animals by approximately 35 times. Despite this vast scale, animal welfare considerations in capture fisheries remain largely unaddressed in legal frameworks. This abstract presents findings from Aquatic Life Institute's third edition report, "Marine Capture Fisheries: Best Practices for Aquatic Animal Welfare" which highlights progressive practices aimed at enhancing the welfare of aquatic animals during capture and processing.

The report showcases innovative techniques employed by fishing vessels, companies, and research institutions that prioritize humane treatment of marine life. Notable practices include the use of 'Moon Pools' for safer line setting and hauling, in-water electrical stunning devices to minimize stress during capture, and the implementation of bycatch reduction devices to decrease unintended catch. These methods not only improve animal welfare but also enhance product quality and sustainability.

The adoption of such humane practices is crucial for the sustainability and equitability of ocean-based food systems. By reducing stress and injury to target species, these methods contribute to better flesh quality and longer shelf life, thereby supporting economic viability for fisheries. Furthermore, minimizing bycatch and habitat disruption aligns with broader environmental conservation goals.

This presentation will delve into specific case studies from the report, examining the effectiveness of these humane practices and their impact on both animal welfare and fishery sustainability. It will also discuss the need for policy regulations to mandate the adoption of such practices, ensuring the protection of aquatic animals and the promotion of ethical standards in the fishing industry.

By integrating humane practices into marine capture fisheries, we can advance towards more sustainable and equitable ocean-based food systems, aligning with global efforts to protect marine ecosystems and promote responsible consumption.