Sustainable Fishing and Bycatch Reduction

Industrial fishing kills billions of non-target animals annually — bycatch reduction is a critical welfare priority.

Key Facts

Global bycatch is estimated at 40% of all fish caught — about 38 million tonnes annually
Sea turtles, dolphins, sharks, and seabirds are among the most affected bycatch species
TEDs (turtle excluder devices) have dramatically reduced sea turtle bycatch
Circle hooks reduce bycatch of sea turtles in longline fisheries by up to 90%

Welfare Considerations

Bycatch — the incidental capture and killing of non-target animals — represents one of the largest sources of preventable wildlife mortality on Earth. Animals caught as bycatch drown in nets, die from pressure changes when hauled from depth, or suffer injuries from hooks and lines. Many of the most affected species — sea turtles, dolphins, whales, and sharks — are slow-reproducing and ecologically important. Technological solutions exist but require regulatory mandates and consumer pressure to implement at scale.

What You Can Do

Choose seafood certified by sustainable fishing standards
Support mandatory bycatch reduction technology requirements
Advocate for stronger bycatch reporting and limits
Reduce seafood consumption to lower overall fishing pressure