It has been found that 70% of wild fish populations are either fully used, overused, or in crisis from overfishing. And with food demand projected to increase by 50% by 2050, there is simply not enough fish in the sea for fishing to be sustainable. Fish farming, otherwise known as aquaculture, is intended to supplement this demand. In fact, salmon aquaculture is the fastest-growing food production system in the world- although not without its own share of controversy. Parker Jefferson is a fly-fisherman in Cowichan, Canada, and has been an integral part of the success story for wild salmon in that area. We talk about the environmental and social importance of protecting these animals but also address how we can make choices that lessen the negative impacts of salmon aquaculture.

Highlights

How are salmon culturally important to the First Nation Tribes of Western Canada?What are the negative impacts of salmon aquaculture in that area?How has Parker's community come together to restore and protect the populations of wild salmon in the Cowichan?How can salmon aquaculture lessen its negative impacts?

What YOU Can Do

Choose wild or certified fish (some certifications can be found in the Resources below).Use a guide such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Guide to help make responsible choices, either on your phone or printed. The Environmental Defense Fund also has a guide called Seafood Selector.Ask "where did this fish come from" at restaurants and grocery stores. The more people who make it known that they care, the more businesses will ask their suppliers and distributors the same.Eat more plant-based meals

Resources

Alexandra Morton Certifications
Global Salmon Initiative
Marine Stewardship Council (wild-caught fish)
Aquaculture Stewardship Council (farmed fish)
Best Aquaculture Practices Certification 


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