Tasmanians top sustainable salmon league
Tassal’s Macquarie Harbour Farm was awarded ASC certification back in April, making it the first fish farm in Australia to meet the ASC standard. Tassal then went on to complete their farm assessments in September, gaining certification for the last of their farms this week.
Head of Sustainability at Tassal, Linda Sams, said: “According to predictions Australia is expected to import over 1 million tonnes of seafood by 2020 - incredible considering the country’s potential to farm our own stocks locally. There is a clear opportunity here for local growth to meet the demand for responsibly produced salmon.
“We have invested a huge amount of time, resources and money into ensuring all of our sites not only reach, but exceed the standards set by the ASC; the global benchmark for responsible aquaculture.”
Tassal has worked closely in partnership with WWF since 2012 to develop their responsible aquaculture production to meet the requirements of the ASC Salmon Standard.
Over that time they have implemented significant upgrades. For example, improving their feed formulation to reduce the reliance on fish meal and fish oil; replacing the last of their copper treated nets; introducing a fish health department and fish welfare programme; and creating an ASC dashboard that publicly reports on any antibiotic use, wildlife interactions or unexplained fish loss.
ASC's CEO, Chris Ninnes, said: “I’d like to congratulate Tassal and its staff for their effort and commitment to achieving ASC certification for all of their farms. Their work and dedication will undoubtedly have a positive effect for the future of aquaculture in the region as it moves towards environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
"The market response since the launch of the ASC salmon standard has been remarkable. And, I’m delighted to see it expand in Australia.”
The Tassal farms’ certificates were awarded following assessment by SCS Global Services (SCS), an independent, accredited certification body.
