The Fishing Industry Is Destroying The Planet

For centuries, millions of people have relied on fishing to make a living. However, in recent years, technology has allowed commercial fishing to go too far. We have reached a point where humanity is stripping the oceans of life faster than it can be replenished. In fact, experts have predicted that the oceans will be empty of fish by 2048 if preventative measures are not taken soon.

The ocean produces over half of the world's oxygen and absorbs almost a third of global CO2 emissions: which essentially means that healthy oceans equal a healthy planet!

Maintaining the health of the oceans is about more than cleaning up litter and reducing single-use plastics, it's about protecting biodiversity and making sure that we are all doing what we can to reverse climate change.

One-third of the world's fisheries are currently overfished in an attempt to keep up with the burgeoning human population and demand for food. Overfishing is made possible because of the destructive practices that companies use to source the fish, such as bottom trawling. Bottom trawling is a harmful technique that involves dragging a net along the ocean floor, destroying habitats and ecosystems along the way.

As well as the high number of fish caught annually, there's a high percentage of bycatch, too; these are species that are unintentionally caught in nets and lines. An estimated 300,000 marine mammals, 160,000 albatross, and 3 million sharks are killed as bycatch each year.

Discarded fishing gear can also destroy habitats such as coral reefs, as well as trap sea life. 

Not all hope is lost. As consumers, we have the power to make a change by making better food choices. Cut down on your consumption of seafood and opt for vegan fish alternatives instead; companies will eventually respond to consumer demand.

Fortunately, the interest in plant-based fish has increased over the last few years, along with the interest of living more ethically. Impossible Foods recently announced that they are working on a plant-based fish product, and 3D printed products are currently in the works, too.

It’s undeniable that recreating vegan seafood is challenging. However, brands such as Good Catch and Loma Linda are among the many that are up for this challenge. They are creating wonderfully innovative alternatives that do not compromise on flavour or put the planet at risk. 

It's also possible to recreate vegan fish at home by deep-frying tofu wrapped in seaweed (trust me, it's delicious)! Not only does it taste good, but it's healthier and better for the environment.