MSC (Marine Stewardship Council ) welcomes FAO guidelines on marine eco-labelling

MSC (Marine Stewardship Council ) welcomes FAO guidelines on marine eco-labelling

14 April 2005 - 18 May 2005

THE Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) welcomes the publication of eco-label guidelines for fish and fishery products by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and says it is a significant endorsement of eco-labelling as a tool to achieve the sustainable management of fisheries. “We believe eco-labels based on robust procedures and the principles of transparency, accountability and independence can help sustain the world’s marine resources for the future,” said Rupert Howes, MSC’s chief executive. “The shape and detail of the FAO’s new guidelines recognise the MSC’s pioneering work in establishing high quality fishery eco-labelling. Our standard is already consistent with the core FAO requirements, and our track record of effective systems, commercial success and consumer recognition is strengthened by the setting of this credible international minimum.”