Aker BioMarine received its third consecutive certification from the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for its sustainable Antarctic krill fishery following an independent assessment. The company was initially certified in 2010, being the first krill company ever to carry the MSC label.

The independent assessment report notes that Aker BioMarine’s key sustainability strengths include the minimum amount of bycatch, its 100% observer coverage on its vessels and the active partnerships with NGOs and scientific institutes that contribute to increased knowledge and raised standards in the fishery.

To receive the MSC blue label on a product, companies must clearly demonstrate that they are achieving high sustainability standards in their operations. Through an independent, third-party audit and assessment, the fishery has demonstrated that the marine resources are sustainably managed and harvested and that all products are traceable.

“Aker BioMarine’s Antarctic krill fishery remains committed to the highest sustainability standards. With their precautionary approach to catch levels, as well as a sound and well-functioning management of the operation, the company is ensuring it has no significant impact to the food chain and future of krill in the Antarctic,” said Linnea Engström, MSC program director for Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea Region.

“MSC is the gold standard for fisheries certifications globally. Through our ten-year partnership they have always pushed us towards new sustainability targets. We are extremely proud of the entire Aker BioMarine team, our partners and our customers, for supporting and reinforcing our sustainability approach. MSC has now validated our efforts with their stamp of approval for the next five years and we will make sure our sustainability work keeps moving forward,” said Pål Einar Skogrand, director of Antarctic Affairs, Aker BioMarine.

Highlights from the certification report are:

• Unconditional re-certification and a higher score achieved in the Ecosystem and Management System categories than in the previous assessment five years ago.
• Catch levels well below what would generally be regarded as a precautionary upper level relative to the best estimates available of stock size.
• Active engagement and support to NGOs and scientific institutes, contributing to knowledge production.
• Negligible bycatch and virtually no interaction with species other than the target krill or minimal retained species.
• Well-established and well-functioning management regime and enforcement system for the fishery, including 100% observer coverage and catch reports after each haul.
• Precautionary and ecosystem approach to managing the fishery.

More information here.