Sustainable Seafood: What Divers Should Know
Learn why sustainable seafood matters to divers and how to make choices that protect ocean ecosystems and marine life.
PRESERVING OUR GREAT LAKES AND OCEANS
Sustainable Seafood: What Divers Should Know
As divers, we experience firsthand the incredible diversity and beauty of marine life. This connection often motivates us to think more deeply about how our actions impact the ocean, including the seafood we eat. Choosing sustainable seafood is one important way to support healthy marine ecosystems and protect the underwater world we love.
Sustainable seafood comes from sources that are responsibly managed to prevent overfishing, minimize environmental harm, and support long-term ocean health. When seafood is caught or farmed sustainably, it helps ensure fish populations remain stable and habitats are preserved.
Unfortunately, some fishing methods and poorly managed fish farms can cause serious harm to the environment. For example, destructive practices like bottom trawling damage the seafloor and coral reefs, while some fish farms contribute to pollution and spread disease if not carefully regulated.
Eating seafood in season supports healthy populations because it aligns with natural reproductive cycles, giving species a better chance to replenish. For example, wild salmon runs typically peak in late summer and fall, while many shellfish thrive in cooler months. Checking local seafood guides can help you choose fresh, sustainable options near you.
Divers should look for certifications such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) when choosing seafood. These labels indicate the product meets rigorous sustainability standards.
Supporting local fisheries that use traditional, low-impact methods can also benefit ocean health and local communities. Varying your seafood choices further reduces pressure on any single species.
By making sustainable seafood choices, divers contribute to protecting the marine life and habitats they enjoy exploring. It’s a way to extend our care beyond the dive and promote healthier oceans for future generations.
Happy and safe diving,
The ScubaBlast Team
Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). (2023). What is sustainable seafood? https://www.msc.org
Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). (2023). About ASC certification. https://www.asc-aqua.org
World Wildlife Fund (WWF). (2022). Sustainable seafood guide. https://www.worldwildlife.org
NOAA Fisheries. (2023). Seafood seasonal availability. https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov