Danish sole fishery nets MSC certification

The Danish Fishermen’s Producer Organization’s (DFPO) North Sea sole fishery has been certified as sustainable and well managed according to the Marine Stewardship Council program, as Demark closes in on its goal of securing MSC certification for all of its fisheries by the end of 2012.

The DFPO has already obtained MSC certification for its North Sea saithe and plaice fisheries and its eastern Baltic cod fishery. Its North Sea hake and haddock fisheries are currently in full assessment. Currently, 72 percent of the DFPO’s fisheries have earned MSC certification.

DFPO North Sea sole fishery operates year-round in the central eastern North Sea, which has a one of the highest concentrations of sole (Solea solea). Fishermen use two gear types — demersal trawl and set nets — to catch about 500 metric tons of sole annually. The fishery is managed by the EU member states through a total allowable catch (TAC) system. At sea and landings, inspections of the fishery are carried out by the Danish Fisheries Directorate.

“The MSC certification means that buyers and consumers all over Europe now can chose our sole and know that they contribute to a sustainable future when it comes to fish and fish products. That feels great,” said Kurt S. Madsen, DFPO chairman.

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