The Truth About Skipjack Tuna Sustainability: What Big Fishing Does Not Want You to Know (2024 Guide)

Is your "sustainable" tuna really as eco-friendly as you think? The answer might surprise you. With skipjack tuna making up over 70% of the global tuna market, understanding sustainability certifications has never been more crucial.

The $42 Billion Secret Behind Your Tuna Can

The skipjack tuna industry is booming, with global sales projected to reach $42 billion by 2025. But many consumers don’t realize that not all sustainability certifications are created equal. While that little blue label might ease your conscience, the truth behind tuna fishing practices is far more complex.

Breaking Down the "Big Five" Certifications

Here’s what you need to know about the most recognized certifications in the industry:

Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)

Often considered the gold standard, MSC certification requires adherence to strict sustainable fishing practices. However, only 23% of MSC-certified skipjack fisheries undergo annual independent audits, raising questions about accountability.

Friend of the Sea (FOS)

FOS is a rising star, with over 1,000 certified skipjack products. Its standout feature? Zero tolerance for fish aggregating devices (FADs), which can harm marine ecosystems.

Earth Island Institute (EII)

The "Dolphin Safe" label focuses exclusively on protecting dolphins but overlooks other critical sustainability factors, making it an incomplete measure of eco-friendliness.

ISSF ProActive Vessel Register (PVR)

This certification requires 100% observer coverage on fishing vessels, ensuring transparency through human or electronic monitoring.

Fair Trade Certified

Fair Trade certification goes beyond environmental impact by promoting ethical labor practices. However, only 5% of skipjack tuna products currently carry this certification.

The Hidden Environmental Cost

While skipjack tuna populations are relatively healthy, the fishing methods used often pose significant environmental challenges:

• Bycatch kills over 250,000 endangered sea turtles annually.
• FADs contribute to 20% of ocean plastic pollution in the Pacific.
• Carbon emissions from fishing vessels have increased by 30% since 2019.

Making Informed Choices: What You Can Do

Here are actionable steps to support sustainable seafood:

1. Check Multiple Certifications: Look for products with at least two recognized certifications, such as MSC + Fair Trade.
2. Track Your Tuna: Use QR codes provided by leading brands to trace your tuna’s journey from ocean to plate.
3. Support Local Fisheries: Small-scale pole-and-line operations often have a lower environmental impact than industrial methods.

The Future of Sustainable Skipjack

Innovation is transforming the industry. Blockchain technology ensures transparency in the supply chain, while new fishing gear designs are projected to reduce bycatch by up to 50%. However, implementing these advancements comes with challenges and added costs.

Why This Matters Now

Climate change and overfishing threaten global tuna stocks. Experts predict that without stronger sustainability measures, skipjack populations could decline by up to 25% by 2030. Your purchasing decisions today will shape the future of our oceans.

The Bottom Line

Sustainability certifications are valuable tools, but they’re just one part of the solution. Achieving true sustainability requires informed consumers, innovative technologies, and collective industry efforts to drive meaningful change.

Remember: Every can of tuna tells a story. Make sure yours supports a future of healthy oceans and ethical practices.

Want to learn more about sustainable seafood? Share this guide with fellow ocean advocates and join the global conversation about responsible seafood choices.