ASC adds further expertise to its advisory group
Fish farming certification body the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has strengthened its Technical Advisory Group (TAG) with the appointment of two new members in Australia – Professor Catriona MacLeod and Dr Heidi Alleway.
MacLeod is adjunct professor at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) at University of Tasmania, and a director of the World Aquaculture Society.
Adelaide-based Alleway is the senior aquaculture scientist at The Nature Conservancy, leading the development of the Global Aquaculture Program’s science portfolio focusing on the applied science needed to advance sustainable food systems, including restorative aquaculture and regenerative food production.
Inclusive governance
The ASC said the appointments reinforce its commitment to stakeholder participation, scientific rigour and inclusive governance. Both appointees previously served on Technical Working Groups (TWGs) for the development of the ASC Farm Standard. Alleway contributed to the Energy Use and Greenhouse Gas TWG, while MacLeod played a key role in the Benthic Impacts TWG.
MacLeod said: “Having seen the influence and impact of the ASC’s standards and expectations across many of my previous roles, I’m now looking forward to contributing more directly to that work.”
Alleway, who has more than 20 years’ experience in marine science, aquaculture and natural resource industry management, and public policy, said: “There’s a pressing need to increase food production in a way that restores nature and supports communities - and responsibly managed aquaculture is an important piece of the puzzle. It’s a privilege to support ASC in its mission to move the farmed seafood sector towards realising its potential of sustainability and social responsibility.”
New trustees sought
ASC chief executive Chris Ninnes said thanked the new TAG members for their commitment. “Their combined experience and insight will be a valuable addition to the TAG as our global reach expands and deepens to deliver impact.”
The ASC is also inviting applications for two new members to join its Board of Trustees - one with a focus on NGO and social impact, and the other on industry, branding, or retail.
“As part of our continued effort to strengthen our governance structure, we’re also looking for new board members who share our vision for a world where responsible aquaculture plays a vital role in feeding the planet sustainably. By joining our Board, you’ll help guide ASC’s strategic direction and ensure we remain a trusted leader in driving environmental and social responsibility across the seafood sector,” said Ninnes.
Learn more about the roles here.
