With overfishing rampant, environmental damage is taking its toll on our precious marine ecosystems. Here are five reasons why everyone should always aim to eat sustainable seafood and ensure supplies for generations to come.
1. Our demand for seafood is taking its toll on our marine life.
According to the experts at Loblaw, there has been a steady decline in the amount of fish in our ocean, so much that now over 30% of the world’s commercial fisheries have collapsed and a high number of fish species are considered endangered. There are not only serious issues with overfishing, but also: bycatch (when other species such as dolphins, turtles, and marine birds are unintentionally caught in fishing nets), severe environmental degradation caused by farmed fishing, and the use of fishing gear which is detrimental to marine habitats.
2. Better practices are needed when it comes to sourcing seafood.
Sustainable seafood sourcing actually means two things: 1. is that the fish have been caught in a such a way that ensures they can regenerate their stocks, and 2. that the method to catch them doesn’t damage their environment.
3. Some fish species are already endangered.
This means not selling certain species to maintain a sustainable future growth.
4. It’s always best to eat with a clean conscience.
We as humans feel better when we know that we are contributing to the greater good and damaging future generations of sea life, allowing our children and grandchildren to enjoy fresh sustainable seafood.
5. Fish and Omega 3s should make up an important part of your diet.
There are plenty of health benefits from eating just 2 serves of fish a week. Fish is a lean protein containing healthy fats, vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, calcium and zinc. Fish is also a low-calorie source of protein, unlike some other sources.
While there might not be too much nutritional difference between eating sustainable and non-sustainable seafood, by sticking with the sustainable seafood options definitely improves the odds for many species, meaning we’ll have plenty of seafood stocks in the future.