Our public information campaigns
The world ocean network carries out public information campaigns on issues surrounding the preservation of the ocean and its resources.
The aim of these campaigns is to raise awareness and inform the general public about the dangers facing the oceans and its resources and to encourage everyone to adopt a responsible attitude towards our collective stewardship of the ocean.
Our campaign on the responsible consumption of seafood
Our current information campaign concerns seafood.
75% of the ocean’s living resources are exploited and certain species are in danger. In light of this, it is becoming necessary and urgent to foster sustainable fishing, aquaculture, resource use and consumption practices.
For these reasons it is crucial to mobilise the support of ordinary people, who can exert a double influence, firstly, as consumers, their choices matter, and secondly, as citizens, their opinions can sway decision-makers and influence the sector’s stakeholders.
The campaign’s principal objective is to provide clear information to consumers.
It should help them to recognize what constitutes best practice in terms of consumption.
Aquariums and science museums provide a unique channel of communication
They also offer the ideal setting for mobilising the public around the campaign theme.
Each year, across Europe, aquariums and science museums are visited by 100 million people, they provide a point of connection between different publics and they enjoy a high level of credibility with the general population. Visitors are receptive and eager, as consumers, to be given useful advice.
How to choose the right fish
Here are four criteria designed to make a contribution to species preservation
The species
To help species to survive and eradicate overfishing, certain fish are only caught is certain seasons. We encourage you therefore to follow these seasons.
The size
To ensure the survival of its species, individual fish need to be allowed to reproduce at least once. For each species, there is therefore a minimum size requirement that you should look out for when making your purchase. As with any natural resource, fish stocks are not unlimited. To help preserve fish biodiversity, the 4 key criteria must be respected.
Regional species
Nature is a thoughtful provider. All our favourite fish can be found along our coasts. By choosing a fish caught locally, you will be eating fresh fish, you will be supporting the local economy and you will be reducing the quantity of CO2 emitted into the atmosphere.
Buy smart, buy local!
Aquaculture
Aquaculture offers advantages for products such as shellfish, oysers and mussels, but has some limitations when it comes to certain types of fish. The main drawback is the fact that the most popular fish are carnivorous varieties, such as salmon, trout, bass, bream or the turbot. It is better to opt for non carnivorous varieties, and for all farm reared fish, ask your fishmonger about how they have been reared and fed.
In conclusion
Give preference to fish from the wild
Give preference to fish species whose stocks are not in danger
Respect the minimum size criterion when making your purchase.
Give consideration to ‘in season’ fish: they are often less expensive.