A chain of aquatic retail outlets in France has become the first to seek MAC certification for all of its stores.
Botanic, which is one of the largest chains of garden and pet centres in France, is aiming to achieve certification from the Marine Aquarium Council for 47 of its retail outlets.
MAC aims to conserve coral reefs and marine ecosystems by creating standards and certification for those involved in the collection, export and sale of all forms of ornamental marine organisms, including fishes, corals and live rock.
While a number of wholesalers supplying the UK trade have achieved MAC certification, there have been no retail stores in the UK who have achieved certification as yet, though a handful are aiming for certification. Says MAC:
"Dedicated to sustainable development and nature conservation, this progressive, responsible family owned chain store has already established a comprehensive company policy on environmental sustainability.
It is now applying its policy to its marine aquatics division by signing the MAC Statement of Commitment and Support (SOC) and making a commitment to purchase marine ornamentals only from MAC Certified companies, whenever possible."
So far, 132 companies in 23 countries have signed up to MAC's Statement of Commitment and Support.
In the UK, the Aqua World Partnership, Just Marine Imports Ltd, Reef Life and Coral Reef Aquaria have signed the SOC and are aiming to achieve future MAC certification.