17 July 2024, Paris – Major European retailer Carrefour has joined forces with the Global Tuna Alliance (GTA) to spearhead significant transformations within tuna supply chains. This powerful partnership is set to implement a dual approach, focusing on improving tuna fishing regulations and management, while also ensuring best practices on all vessels supplying Carrefour.
Carrefour Steps Up Efforts to Address Tuna Sustainability Challenges
Carrefour acknowledges the persistent environmental and social challenges posed by tuna fishing. In response, the Group is taking proactive steps to engage the tuna sector and lead collective action to reverse the long trend of declining populations.
By joining forces with the Global Tuna Alliance (GTA), Carrefour aims to strengthen fisheries management practices and address those continued social and environmental risks with direct action. This collaboration sends a unified message from the retail sector to Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs), emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable management to ensure the long-term viability of tuna stocks.
Suspension of Indian Ocean Yellowfin Tuna for Canned Goods
In a clear demonstration of their commitment to sustainability and advocacy, Carrefour has decided to suspend their sourcing of Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna for the company’s own-brand canned products across France, Italy, Spain, and Belgium. This definitive action underscores Carrefour’s prioritization of responsible sourcing and its stance against unsustainable tuna fishing practices.
Reducing Negative Impacts of Fishing Gear
Carrefour is also collaborating with other brands to share and implement practices aimed at reducing the impact of different fishing techniques, notably fish aggregating devices (FADs). Recognizing the challenges associated with FAD fishing, Carrefour has committed to decreasing the proportion of its tuna products sourced using these methods until management of such gear is sufficiently improved and FADs can be employed more responsibly and sustainably.
Addressing Human Rights Issues
In addition to environmental concerns, Carrefour is actively working with industry stakeholders to address human rights issues within the tuna fishing sector. This collective effort aims to implement solutions that promote fair labor practices and safeguard the rights of workers across the supply chain.
A United Vision for Change
“We need to be the change for our ocean. Tuna stocks need to be managed sustainably with the correct regulations in place, and fishers need to stick to these rules, allowing transparency on the water to ensure compliance. Carrefour is proud to be part of those acting for tuna sustainability, and we are eager to partner with the Global Tuna Alliance to push these vital changes forward,” said Carine Kraus, Carrefour’s Chief Impact officer.
Daniel Suddaby, Executive Director of GTA, stated: “Carrefour’s decision to take a stand against the status quo and support rigorous regulatory and compliance measures is a game-changer. This partnership not only promotes sustainable fishing practices, but also ensures transparency and accountability in the tuna supply chain.”