Environment

ENVIRONMENT FOOT PRINT OF PELAGIC FISH

Scottish pelagic fisheries are recognised for having a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to other forms of protein production, such as beef, lamb, pork, and chicken.

Recent scientific research conducted by Dr. Francis Sandison reveals that Scottish-caught pelagic fish have the lowest carbon footprint and environmental impact among various seafood products.

For instance, when compared to UK farmed salmon, the carbon footprint of pelagic fish is more than seven times lower.

To provide a broader perspective, wild-capture seafood production in general has a much smaller carbon footprint than all forms of land-based meat production, with beef and lamb being the most carbon-intensive.

In fact, further research indicates that wild-capture fisheries, including pelagic species, even have a lower carbon footprint than many plant-based protein sources, such as grains, tofu, pulses, and peas. This finding emphasises the environmental benefits of sustainably managed wild fisheries.

Given these advantages, sustainably managed Scottish pelagic fish stands out as a highly climate-smart food source, contributing to the broader goals of combating climate change.

The low environmental impact of the pelagic sector will play a crucial role in helping Scotland meet its ambitious target of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2045, ahead of the UN’s global target of 2050.

With its minimal carbon footprint, the Scottish pelagic industry is well-positioned to support both the environment and the nation’s sustainable food supply.