Prominent fish canner Grupo Calvo has joined the ranks of the International Pole & Line Foundation (IPNLF), a non-profit association committed to developing and celebrating product lines featuring tuna that has been responsibly obtained by using one-by-one catching methods.
Founded back in 1940 in Galicia, Spain, Grupo Calvo operates six multi-product canning plants and manufacturing facilities across three countries. Brands produced by Grupo Calvo include Calvo, Nostromo and Gomes da Costa; the company has produced an expansive portfolio comprised of over 700 products.
By becoming the 32nd member of IPNLF, the canner has made a clear commitment to promote the rights of workers, minimize the impact of its operations and to support scientific initiatives working towards the sustainability of natural resources, according to IPNLF.
“To ensure its measures are implemented company-wide, Grupo Calvo has established harmonized policies and management systems. Through its own dynamic Tuna Fishing Sustainability Policy, it has developed practices and long-term measures aimed at ensuring the consistent sustainability of tuna fisheries in both environmental and economic terms,” explained the non-profit.
What’s more, Grupo Calvo has embraced standards and practices that align well with the United Nations’ Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights – the company also supports the sustainability criteria within the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries by way of its Code of Conduct for Responsible Tuna. As such, all Grupo Calvo tuna suppliers must demonstrate maximum respect and consideration for human rights and a keen regard for sustainability.
“At Grupo Calvo, we believe tuna sustainability can only be reached through robust management of the resource together with clear long-term conservation objectives that are based on scientific data and efficient decision-making procedures. Being an active Member of the International Pole & Line Foundation further strengthens our commitment to working for a sustainable supply of tuna, through responsible and transparent fishing practices,” said Enrique Orge, General Manager Europe of Grupo Calvo.
“The International Pole & Line Foundation is a hub for proactive companies like Grupo Calvo who want to help drive the sustainable and equitable development of one-by-one caught tuna and we are delighted to welcome them on board. It is clear that the demand for such products will continue to grow in countries where seafood suppliers are progressively committing to responsible procurement. We believe all stakeholders have a vital role to play in helping develop the industry. To ensure that new and existing fisheries can credibly supply the fast growing consumer demand for pole-and-line caught tuna, we will work with our Members to bridge the gap between supply and demand,” added Emily Howgate, International Coordinating Director of IPNLF, on the group’s new member.
