Tuna is one of Australia’s favourite seafood products and sells over 250,000,000 cans every year at the cost of many other marine animals. Whether you eat tuna or not there is a real problem, overfishing is one that will eventually lead to diminishing worldwide supplies. We cannot continue to fish at these rates and not see species disappearing.

Today I received an email from Greenpeace highlighting the growing problem with one particular brand of Tuna, John West. Please read the paragraph below that comes directly from the abovementioned email. I have added the links also so you too can help make a difference.

Today Greenpeace released its 4th Canned Tuna Guide to help consumers make informed choices. Since our last guide, we have seen a profound shift in the market thanks to people like you taking action. While there is plenty to celebrate, one stand-out offender continues to destroy tuna stocks and marine life.

John West sells over a third of all canned tuna in Australia – its decisions have the biggest impact on our oceans. While its competitors are changing, John West refuses to rule out destructive fishing methods that unnecessarily kill hundreds of tonnes of sharks, rays, baby tuna and turtles every year.    

Greenpeace assesses brands on a range of factors, but one of the most important things they can do for our oceans is stop using fish aggregating devices (FADs) with giant ‘purse seine’ nets.

Fishing with FADs is indiscriminate – at least 10% of each haul is undersized tuna and other marine creatures, known as bycatch.

Why John West?

• John West is Australia’s biggest tuna brand – it sells 97 million cans of tuna a year.

• John West claims it is committed to sustainability, but for 98% of its tuna, John West still permits the use of FADs with nets.

• John West catches the equivalent of 10 million cans of sharks, rays, baby tuna and turtles a year by refusing to ban FADs.

Tell John West to stop using FADs



The good tuna news


While John West continues to let Australians down, its competitors are taking ocean protection seriously. Two major brands – Greenseas and Sirena – have pledged to ban the use of FADs by 2015.

Safcol’s switch to 100% pole and line tuna last year led the way and showed that big changes can be made. And at little extra cost to the consumer. Today you can choose from eight sustainable pole and line products.

View the 2012 Canned Tuna Guide

Together we all can make a difference.

Love and Light