In celebration of World Oceans Day, Publix has continued its longstanding commitment to sustainable seafood practices and ocean wildlife protection by donating $130,000 to the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership (SFP). This contribution marks the latest in a 14-year partnership dedicated to responsible seafood harvesting and ocean conservation.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainability
“Publix is committed to taking meaningful steps alongside our supplier partners to drive the responsible harvesting of seafood,” said Publix Business Development Director of Seafood Guy Pizzuti. “We are thankful for this important collaboration with SFP and our supplier partners, and we are proud of the work we’re doing together to advance these efforts.”
Innovative Gear for Sustainable Fishing
This year's donation supports several key initiatives, including the CanFISH Gear Lending Program, which provides ropeless fishing gear to commercial fisheries in Nova Scotia. This advanced gear minimizes the risk of whale entanglements by reducing the time ropes are suspended in the water.
Support for Fishery Improvement Projects
Publix's annual contribution also aids SFP's global fishery improvement projects, aiming to lessen the environmental impacts of fishing and fish farming, protect ocean biodiversity, and enhance economic opportunities for fishers. This includes tackling bycatch issues in the mahi fisheries of Costa Rica and Panama.
The Bycatch Solutions Hub
Publix funds the SFP Bycatch Solutions Hub, a digital platform designed to connect commercial fishers with experts. This hub shares innovations and best practices to reduce bycatch of marine wildlife and features an interactive map showcasing global efforts to mitigate bycatch.
Focus on the Gulf of St. Lawrence
The donation further supports a fishery improvement project in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, where new technologies are being tested to reduce interactions between snow crab traps and the endangered North Atlantic right whale. This region is a significant supplier of snow crab to Publix.
A Partnership for Progress
“Publix's support has helped fishers through difficult transitions necessary to reduce impacts on vulnerable marine wildlife,” said SFP Biodiversity and Nature Director Kathryn Novak. “We are proud to partner with Publix. For nearly 15 years, Publix has invested in solutions that work for the environment and benefit fishers and local communities.”
Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Publix is dedicated to providing high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood. The company ensures customers can enjoy a variety of seafood options responsibly harvested, identified by sustainability icons on its products.
Source: Publix, Newsroom (June 6, 2024). http://corporate.publix.com/newsroom
