Earlier today (technically yesterday by the time you read this), I spent some time reading an article on sustainability and seafood, which prompted me to write this little bit on an associated topic: the Monterey Bay Aquarium and their Seafood Watch app (android market/apple store). The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the leaders in the sustainability discussion as it pertains to seafood. They have launched a number of initiatives and have a hand in the food served at quite a number of seafood restaurants all over the country.
Project FishMap and the Seafood Watch app is an attempt to take their sustainable seafood recommendations and put them at the tip of your fingers in the most accessible way possible. The app helps you not only see what seafood (even sushi) they consider ocean-friendly and then helps you find nearby restaurants that are sustainable conscious (or not for that matter). Last but not least, they crowdsource information so that you can update your findings on the app and let other people know about it. For those without an iPhone or android, you can use the mobile site.
DOWNLOAD: android market / apple store
More on Sustainable Seafood
Now, as that article by The Passionate Foodie will tell you, sustainability is a hotly debated topic. It’s been turned into a buzz word and much of the accepted “facts” aren’t really accepted (or even facts). So while I can’t universally back the list of seafood listed as sustainable, I believe Seafood Watch is a great tool for those looking to educate themselves a little bit more. For those of you not as technically inclined, you can find pocket guides and online tools on MBA’s website.
While not perfect, the Aquarium’s Seafood watch app is a great start. The Aquarium has taken great strides to update their information every six-months, so this should be relatively fresh (HA – I made a pun!) information.
For more info on seafood sustainability, take some time to read through a few of the Passionate’s posts on sustainability. They are in depth, highly informative, and he has a huge TRUST factor in my book. He never takes anything at face value, and does his best to present a balanced take on whatever the topic at hand is. (show him some @ love)
Moreover, get on the interwebs and start searching. Learn what sustainability actually is and how it affects (and effects) you. Here are some good reads: