The South African experience with MSC certification: A perspective

Abstract

Perspectives on the South African experience with Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification, specifically that of the valuable hake trawl fishery which is as yet the only MSC certified fishery in Africa, are summarised based on discussions with local scientists and fishing industry members. On the positive side, the greatest benefit has been the resultant enhanced attention given to science. However, the fact that some MSC requirements relate to government rather than industry responsibilities raises the issue of the extent to which government omissions should result in penalties to industry. At a broader level, the question of whether raising or lowering of MSC standards would be in the best interests of promoting and achieving fisheries sustainability globally is discussed.