Species Scope Extension Project: Atlantic Cod

Why add Atlantic cod to the ASC Certification Programme?

There is increasing demand for ASC certification of Atlantic cod from both farmers and retailers. Atlantic cod is a logical addition to the ASC Certification Programme due to strong similarities with salmon farming in Norway. Most ASC Salmon Standard v1.4 criteria are also relevant to cod.

What impacts would be covered by adding Atlantic cod to the ASC Certification Programme?

By certifying Atlantic cod, ASC can drive improvements in farming practices, support environmental responsibility and promote fair working conditions in this sector of aquaculture. Key issues that would be addressed through the ASC Certification Programme include biodiversity loss, ecosystem impacts, the spread of disease and resource sustainability.

Approach

ASC is proposing firstly to adapt the ASC Salmon Standard v1.4 to include Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and then ultimately to integrate the species into the ASC Farm Standard v1.1 (see timeline).