A team of leading ocean scientists has introduced a groundbreaking set of 11 “golden rules” to redefine sustainable fishing. Their new framework aims to end ongoing ocean destruction, promote abundant fish populations and ensure food security for future generations.
In a decisive call to action, a team of leading ocean experts has introduced a revolutionary set of guidelines that aim to transform sustainable fishing practices. Published in Nature’s scientific journal npj Ocean Sustainability, their report proposes 11 “golden rules” designed to halt ongoing ocean destruction and regenerate fish populations to feed future generations.
This initiative came ahead of Brussels’ Ocean Week and the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, providing a timely push for urgent global reforms. As the health status of the world’s oceans reaches alarming lows, scientists argue that the prevailing definition of “sustainable fishing” is dangerously outdated and needs an overhaul.
“The current concept of ‘sustainable fishing’, adopted by governments and private actors since the post-war period is scientifically obsolete,” lead author Callum Roberts, a professor of marine conservation at the University of Exeter and chief scientist of the Convex Seascape Survey, said in a news release. “It relies on a simplistic, productivist theory which assumes that as long as global catch volumes remain below a set limit, anyone can fish just about anything, anywhere, with any method.”
The new guidelines shift the focus toward minimizing the impact on marine species and habitats, adapting to climate change and enhancing the wellbeing of people and communities — especially the most vulnerable. This approach starkly contrasts with existing standards that often benefit large corporations and ignore their detrimental effects on ecosystems and artisanal fishing communities.
“Can we truly claim that all fishing gear is environmentally and socially equal? We currently label fisheries as sustainable without considering their impact on marine ecosystems or human factors, such as crew safety and rights,” Jennifer Jacquet, a professor of environmental science and policy at the University of Miami, said in the news release.
The authors criticize the current “sustainable” labeling standards, highlighting that they fail to address global biodiversity and climate challenges. Instead, these standards often support industrial practices that disproportionately benefit the Global North while harming ecosystems, public finances and food security worldwide.
The paper’s comprehensive vision integrates insights from various disciplines, including biology, oceanography, social science and economics. This interdisciplinary approach promises a more sustainable and ethical model of marine resource management.
“Our work advocates for fisheries that preserve ocean ecosystems’ vital functions, mitigate climate change, guarantee food security and respect human rights,” added Daniel Pauly, a professor at the University of British Columbia.
Roberts emphasized the necessity of viewing fishing as a “privilege rather than a right,” underscoring the importance of marine resources’ public good to benefit society and nature.
The scientists are calling on policymakers, retailers, fishers and industry leaders to adopt these new principles urgently. Retailers, especially supermarkets responsible for nearly two-thirds of European seafood sales, have a critical role in enforcing responsible practices through their sourcing policies.
“We are witnessing a growing disconnect between the widespread availability of supposedly sustainable fish products, the collapse of ocean ecosystems and the frequency of reported human rights abuses. Supermarkets must stop misleading consumers,” urged Pauline Bricault, BLOOM’s markets campaign lead.
Both the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) have set 2030 as a deadline for crucial changes. The proposed framework sets the groundwork for a future where ocean resources are preserved for the long-term needs of humanity while maintaining ecological balance.
This transformative vision aims to mobilize all stakeholders toward a more sustainable, equitable and resilient oceanic future. The clock is ticking, and the time for action is now.