Aker BioMarine’s krill harvesting operation has been recertified by the Marine Stewardship Council

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Aker BioMarine has earned its third consecutive certification from The Marine Stewardship Council (MCS) following an independent assessment of its Antarctic krill fishery. Aker received unconditional recertification, and a higher score in the Ecosystem and Management System categories compared to the previous five years. According to the assessment report, Aker’s catch levels were well below the precautionary upper level relative to best estimate of stock size, and had negligible bycatch with virtually no interaction with species other than the target krill. The report also praises Aker’s active engagement with and support of NGOs and scientific institutes, contributing to knowledge production, as well as a well-established and very functional management regime and enforcement system for the fishery, with 100% observer coverage and catch reports following each haul.

“Aker BioMarine’s Antarctic krill fishery remains committed to the highest sustainability standards. With their precautionary approach to catch levels, as well as a sound and well-functioning management of the operation, the company is ensuring it has no significant impact to the food chain and future of krill in the Antarctic,” said Linnea Engström, MSC program director for Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea Region, in a press release.

“MSC is the gold standard for fisheries certifications globally. Through our 10-year partnership they have always pushed us towards new sustainability targets. We are extremely proud of the entire Aker BioMarine team, our partners and our customers, for supporting and reinforcing our sustainability approach,” said Pål Einar Skogrand, director Antarctic Affairs for Aker BioMarine. “MSC has now validated our efforts with their stamp of approval for the next five years and we will make sure our sustainability work keeps moving forward.”