ISSF Approach to Tuna Sustainability Attracts Growing List of Participating Companies

One year after taking its mission and global partnership public, the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF) announced its roster of participating companies has expanded, reports www.megafishnet.com with reference to ISSF.

Negocios Industriales Real NIRSA S.A., an Ecuador-based supplier to the Americas and Europe, and FRINSA, a Spain-based supplier to the European market, will join 8 other tuna companies and WWF, participating in the world's largest tuna fisheries sustainability initiative.

"As the Foundation grows so does the footprint of our actions," said ISSF President Susan Jackson, adding, "This partnership is based on the belief that governments responsible for managing tuna fisheries must reach consensus and rally around science. When they don't, we're here to hold them accountable, advocate for change and help to fill in any scientific gaps that stand in the way of a sustainable future."

Both newly accepted participating companies have been audited to confirm compliance with the Foundation's bylaws and resolutions. Among the requirements is a commitment to refrain from transactions in illegally caught tuna. Participating companies must also prove an ability to trace all tuna from capture to plate.
 
Over the past few months the Foundation has seen significant growth. In addition to new participating companies, ISSF has increased staffing, brought on a full-time scientist, appointed new Science Advisory Committee members and added another seat to the Board of Directors.

"Bringing together and building upon a diverse group like this sends a strong message to nations who might block progress - it's time for a change and those satisfied with a sub standard status quo are becoming an increasing minority," Jackson added.

"We look forward to working with an even larger group in the future to strengthen science and its vital role in protecting our tuna fisheries."

The International Seafood Sustainability Foundation is a global partnership among scientists, the tuna industry and WWF, the world's leading conservation organization. ISSF's mission is to undertake science-based initiatives for the long-term conservation and sustainable use of tuna stocks, reducing bycatch and promoting ecosystem health.