Valorisation od sustainably caught and fresh fish (VALDUVIS)

How can the intrinsic value of fish landed in Belgium be better translated into a fair price for the fishers? This research project has a practical and economic purpose but also requires scientific expertise. The project objectives are: 1) organizing the traceability of fish landed; 2) establishing procedures (or applying existing procedures) that guarantee good fish quality; 3) establishing procedures (or applying existing procedures) that ensure sustainable fisheries; 4) visualization of the properties of the landings using a quality and sustainability diagram.

The aim of the VALDUVIS project is to develop a clear information method within the fisheries industry sector that visualizes the quality and sustainability of freshly caught fish. First, we examine the conditions which must be met before fish can qualify as a sustainable and high-quality product. Then we look at how these properties can best be communicated within the sector. This work is done in close consultation with the various stakeholders of the fisheries sector using participatory processes.

Given the ever-increasing costs to the ship-owner and shrinking profit margins due to competition from cheap imported fish, new valorization strategies are needed for locally caught fish. The recent reform of the Common Fisheries Policy proposed by the European Commission points toward a further steps to improve ecological sustainability of fisheries. In addition, several major domestic and foreign retailers are actively seeking a sustainability label for fish. This combination provides opportunities for the Belgian fisheries industry. A promising route can be developed around fresh, sustainably caught fish. This process should account for the specific situation of Belgian fishing, as existing international ecolabels are not entirely fitting.