What can the individual do to help the cause?
- Be aware. Understand the issue over overfishing. Know the facts. This website provides you with the who/what/where/when/why of the overfishing issue. http://overfishing.org/pages/what_is_overfishing.php
- Download the Action Cards from the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/cr/cr_seafoodwatch/content/media/MBA_SeafoodWatch_ActionCards.pdf
- View the Training Program from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program. http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/media/FLASH/sfw/training_cd/sfw_training_video.asp?low=true
- Eat your vegetables! Chef Barton Seaver goes back to basics taking mom’s advice as a means to combat overfishing. “Want to save the ocean? Start with broccoli.” Seaver’s approach is holistic in that he talks not only about choosing the right fish for dinner (based on catch methods, a fish’s role in the marine ecosystem, fishermen, etc.) he talks about wellness and portion control too.
- Be aware not only in where you eat when you dine out, but where you purchase your groceries too. (see link to Greenpeace report) http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/en/campaigns/oceans/seafood/Carting-Away-the-Oceans-Infographic/
- Before going on a fishing trip, be sure to know and understand the fishing regulations for the area you will be fishing. Regulations are put in place to help manage fish species.
- Before buying tropical fish for your fish tank, look for the certification label from Marine Aquarium Council (MAC). This organization monitors fish collection to ensure sustainability. They will certify fish that meet the standards.
- Spread the word. Tell your friends; blog about it; write to your elected officials. Let them know why you make the fish choices you do, ask them how they feel about sustainable fishing practices. Seek to educate!