Target Takes on Sustainable Seafood

Target is committing to sourcing only sustainable and traceable seafood products by 2015 with the help of FishWise. Last year, Target was the first major retailer to eliminate all farmed salmon from its stores. That move made waves in the agriculture and retail industries, sending a strong message of commitment to the long-term sustainability of our ocean resources. TARGET'S SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD INITIATIVE PLENTY OF RETAIL HOW TARGET FISH IN THE RESPONSIBILITY IS HELPING SEA? Target ranked More than 80% 24% of all seafood (by value) consumed in the U.S is sold fresh and frozen through retailers. #2 of seafood consumed in the U.S. is imported. on Greenpeace's seafood score card in 2011. Scientists estimate that we have removed as much as Only Orange roughy may live 25% of U.S. fisheries are known to be sustainable. 90 PERCENT 100 YEARS OR MORE of large predatory fish such as shark, swordfish and cod from the world's oceans. but don't breed until they're 20 years old. Fishermen catch orange roughy when the fish gather to breed and feed, wiping out entire generations at a time. Consumers spent an estimated $80.2 BILLION IN JUST 10 YEARS, WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING on fishery products in 2010. Chilean seabass has been pushed to the verge of collapse due to intense illegal fishing activity. "I'm pleased Target is a leader in recognizing the need for responsible fisheries management when choosing its seafood products," said Senator Mark Begich (D-AK). "Alaska has managed our fisheries responsibly for over 50 years and is recognized as one of the world's best managed fisheries. We also take great pride in the quality and taste of our wild salmon, halibut, Pollock, cod and crab. As one of the largest seafood producers in the world, Alaska welcomes Target's decision to feature sustainable choices at their fish counter. I think it's a decision that will be wildly popular among their customers." .................. United States imported about 5.5 BILLION Target said sayonara! to Chilean sea bass and orange roughy due to their vulnerable spot on the endangered species list. pounds 294.8 million pounds from 2009. seafood in 2010, an increase 70% of the world's fisheries are being harvested at capacity or are in decline. "We welcome the news from Target of their commitment to sustainable and traceable seafood, and Alaska also commits ourselves to the most flavorful fish," said Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK). "Alaska's fisheries are an economic engine for our state and serve as the entire nation's kitchen – we provide over half of the nation's commercial seafood. Our wide array of groundfish, flatfish and shellfish are due to a knowledgeable and diligent workforce, but also to responsible policies that It's estimated that by 2030, the world will need an additional 37 MILLION TONS of farmed fish per year to maintain current levels of consumption. THAT'S A LOT OF FISH! maintain our tastiest renewable resource." Sources: FishWise, Environmental Defense Fund, Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, NOAA