Troubled Oceans

Our Fisheries Are Important

Fresh, local seafood is healthy

Eating local seafood means that you get fresh, tasty products, support your own community and help to maintain local economies. Fish are also a great source of protein, low in fat and many contain the ideal ratio of beneficial Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.

Supporting coastal livelihoods

Canada’s fisheries generated $4.5 billion in 2004. This revenue helps to support our fishing industry and coastal communities. Fisheries products are Canada’s single greatest dollar value food export, making Canada the fifth largest seafood exporter in the world.

Ensuring Canadian food security

Canada has the longest coastline of any country in the world, and the fifth largest exclusive economic zone (our national waters). Fish in these waters are an important Canadian food source, particularly as the rising cost of fuel decreases the accessibility of imported seafood for many people.

Helping those who fish to stay alive

There are one billion people, mainly in developing countries, who rely on fish as a principal source of protein. Without serious changes to fisheries management, their future protein needs may not be met. Two-thirds of the fish in the wealthier parts of the world is imported from developing countries. In addition to supporting your local community, buying locally decreases market pressures to export fish away from developing countries. At present, fair trade fish is not available.

[Certified fair trade products meet stringent environmental and social standards, including equitable remuneration for labour.]