Australian seafood industry steps up to the plate in war against plastic
Seafood Industry Australia (SIA), the national peak body representing the Australian seafood industry, has taken Plastic-Free July as an opportunity to highlight the innovative ways seafood businesses are fighting the war against plastic by finding replacements, implementing change and protecting the marine environment.
“We are proud to be involved in the Plastic-Free July movement,” SIA CEO Jane Lovell said.
“All around the country there are diverse examples of how our industry is finding ways to eradicate plastic and protect the ocean.
“In Victoria, there is a Bins on Boats program where commercial fishing boats are offered free wind and weather-proof bins to reduce marine pollution.
“In Tasmania, SIA member Tassal has committed to recycling 100% of all hard and soft plastics through a partnership with Tasmanian plastic manufacturer Envorinex.
“In Western Australia, commercial fishing vessels are keeping a close look out for any ghost gear, abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gear, in their fisheries. They remove them if is safe to do so, and if not, they get a GPS fix and report it.
“In New South Wales, Sydney Fish Markets was recently awarded Bronze Partner status in the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage’s Sustainability Advantage Program in recognition of developing a business case for the elimination of tenant plastic packaging.
“Plastic-free July is an important reminder that we all have a role to play in eliminating plastic from our marine environment.
“As fishers, our priority is the ocean. We advocate the health, sustainability and future of our ocean. It’s our livelihood and the future livelihood of generations to come.”
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