Seafish, the authority on seafood in the UK, together with the MCCIP (Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership), are currently reviewing climate change impacts on the seafood industry as part of a project to ensure the industry is prepared to respond.
A number of workshops are being held to support industry in understanding these impacts and explore potential adaptation actions for industry, Seafish, and others with the first workshop held on 24 September in Aberdeen. The work will result in a Climate Change Adaptation report for the UK seafood industry detailing ways in which it can respond to these developments.
The report is being developed to contribute to the UK Government National Adaptation Programme as required under the Climate Change Act 2008. Other industry sectors are also being asked to conduct a similar exercise. The scope of the seafood industry work is confined to wild capture fisheries only and will consider the domestic and international supply chains for white fish, pelagic and shellfish species.
Angus Garrett, who is leading the work for Seafish, said: “Whether it is increased storminess or shifts in available species, climate change affects nearly every part of the seafood industry, from production to consumption. For this reason businesses and organisations will need to engage and collaborate in understanding and responding to climate change.
“We are keen to hear directly from industry on the impact some of the various developments may have on business and how they are preparing for the future. These workshops aim to give industry a platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities it may bring and help future proof the industry for generations to come.”
Anyone interested in attending one of the Climate Change workshops should contact Angus on 0131 524 8697 or email angus.garrett@seafish.co.uk.
