Community Catch

Community Catch is a global initiative designed to promote social responsibility and environmental sustainability within small-scale fishing communities. It creates fair market access for small wild-capture fisheries, supports sustainable practices, and strengthens the long-term social and economic development of coastal communities worldwide.

The initiative specifically targets small-scale fisheries whose traditional methods and societal role are vital for food security, employment and environmental stewardship — yet who often lack access to conventional sustainability certification schemes. Community Catch addresses these barriers by providing an accessible, affordable and credible sustainability standard tailored to the realities of small-scale fisheries.

Partnering with Community Catch delivers clear value for businesses across the supply chain as well as for end consumers:

Sustainable and inclusive
Community Catch promotes responsible fishing practices that prioritise environmental protection, human rights and social responsibility.

Market access and recognition
Small-scale fisheries gain credible certification that supports access to responsible markets and premium buyers.

Transparency and credibility
The standard integrates social and environmental criteria with independent verification, building trust with buyers and consumers.

Commitment to global sustainability
Companies that support or join Community Catch demonstrate leadership in sustainable supply chains and social equity.

Community Catch is based on a purpose-built standard for small-scale fisheries, incorporating economic, social and environmental criteria. The process follows three key steps:

Self-assessment
Fishers can complete a free self-assessment to review their current practices against sustainability and social benchmarks.

Independent assessment
Based on the self-assessment, an accredited third party (Conformity Assessment Body) can conduct an independent evaluation and formally certify the fishery.

Certification and visibility
Successful fisheries receive formal recognition, enabling them to demonstrate responsible practices to traders and consumers and unlock new market opportunities.

Community Catch offers multiple ways to engage — from direct membership for supply chain companies, to support and advisory services, through to active participation in developing sustainable fishing practices.

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