Representing & Supporting Shetland’s Fishermen

Climate-smart fishing industry to be highlighted at seafood showcase
September 29th 2022

The contribution of Shetland’s fishing industry to tackling climate change will be underlined tomorrow at a Sustainable Seafood Showcase being staged as part of Shetland Climate Week.

The event will be held in Lerwick Town Hall from 11am-2pm by Shetland Fishermen’s Association (SFA) and Shetland Shellfish Management Organisation (SSMO) in conjunction with Shetland Islands Council, Taste of Shetland and other local seafood representatives.

SFA executive officer Daniel Lawson said: “I hope as many people as possible come along to find out more about how Shetland’s biggest industry is tackling climate change.

“We have a modern, fuel-efficient fleet that is committed to sustainable fishing, and fish has the lowest carbon cost of all comparable forms of nutritious protein.

“Every SFA member vessel is signed up to KIMO’s Fishing for Litter scheme; our pelagic nets are recycled; and the industry is working with the ORION project to research future eco-friendly fuels.”

The SFA and Taste of Shetland will also be launching a revamped version of the Local Seafood Provenance Scheme, which is backed by a grant from the Regional Food Fund.

The scheme is designed to show people where and how to source and savour locally produced seafood.

Mr Lawson said: “Buying local fish and produce can decrease an individual’s carbon footprint. Food produced in Shetland and sourced from it surrounding waters have a significantly lower carbon footprint as it is processed and packaged close to where it is sold and consumed.

“The Taste of Shetland catering trailer will be on site for the day handing out free samples of local, sustainable seafood. Come and get a free lunch and learn about how your food choices can make a difference to climate change.”