Recently, the aquaculture sector has been growing tremendously, and this growth is expected to continue over the next decades. While this spells some positives with respect to food security, this sort of growth comes with unintended effects that could impact the environment as well as society as a whole. As such, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council has set standards that fish farms must follow to ensure environmental and ecological sustainability.

5 Things the Aquaculture Stewardship Council Stands For:

1. Social Responsibility:

Social Responsibility

One of the things ASC stands for is ensuring the execution of social responsibilities is done as per the organization’s principles. For instance, ASC does not allow child labor. As such, those working in the aquaculture sector should hold contracts in line with the regulations by the International Labor Organization. Additionally, there need to be regulations to protect the safety and health of workers.

In addition to that, the ASC standards are such that they ensure the social impact of the farm is limited. The auditors often assess if the practices used in farms are such that the rights of workers are respected. The ASC also ensures the processes carried out are in accordance with the standards outlined by the organization.

2. Responsible Fishing:

Responsible Fishing

Another aspect the ASC stands for is responsible for fishing. The organization issues certificates which encourage responsible fishing among businesses and consumers. In addition to that, the issuance of the ASC certificates makes it possible for businesses to reach new markets through their sustainable fish farming practices. According to ASC, getting certified implies you are a leader in sustainable development, and this reinforces your eco-friendliness and responsibility to your esteemed customers.

You can visit the following link to find more information about ASC certification and sustainable fishing.

3. Environment Improvements:

In addition to responsible fishing, ASC works to ensure the existing conditions of the environment are improved. When it comes to creating fish farms, ASC holds that nature conservation areas should be respected and protected. Water must be treated properly to avoid environmental degradation and the chemicals used should be regulated and monitored. Moreover, to minimize the impact of farming on the environment, the water that has been discarded after production should not surpass the limits outlined by the ASC standards to avoid detrimental effects on the environment.

4. Transparency and Continuous Improvement:

Transparency is another factor that ASC stands for. As such, the organization ensures outcomes of project meetings are posted on its website so the information can be accessible to the public. In addition to that, ASC carries out regular reviews on their existing standards to ensure they are as robust as they can be and that they meet, if not exceed, the best industry practices.

5. Food Safety and Animal Welfare:

Animal Welfare

While ASC does not have specific requirements that cover the welfare of animals and matters to do with food safety, farms certified by the organization are required to apply best practices to ensure animals are healthy and food produced is safe for consumption. For instance, there are strict regulations surrounding the use of antibiotics, fish growth ratio, and maintenance of quality water.

Final Word:

The Aquaculture Stewardship Council has set down standards that fish farms must adhere to. Such standards ensure the use of quality and safe water, production of quality fish products, and environmental conservation. Such aspects are among the things that ASC stands for.

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Arina Smith

I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at OnlineNewsBuzz.

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