Prince Charles is to launch a major campaign to stop the destruction of the oceans as a result of overfishing.
Prince Charles, who is the president of the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) made the announcement at Fishmongers' Hall at the launch of a report published by one of his charities - the International Sustainability Unit (ISU). The report stated that fisheries around the world could be pulled back from the brink of collapse by tackling wasteful fishing practices.
The Prince warned of "dire" long-term consequences unless action is taken to manage fish stocks more effectively and encouraged governments, retailers and the fishing industry to adopt more sustainable practices.
A Clarence House spokesman said: "The Prince of Wales has been concerned about the marine environment for many years."
"The work of the Prince's Charities' ISU's Marine Programme is about promoting sustainable approaches towards fisheries to preserve a long-term livelihood for the communities and industries that rely on them, to preserve the fish stocks, and to protect biodiversity and ecosystems in the sea."
The report highlights research that shows that oceans can potentially provide £31 billion per year more value than they currently do if managed in an optimal manner and advisors to the report are keen to emphasise that sustainability isn’t necessarily about taking less fish but more about correct management.
The Prince, who has a long record of environmental campaigning, has previously backed attempts to reform the Common Fisheries Policy and has described the issue of by-catch and discards as "immoral".
Campaigners are hopeful that his influence will persuade governments, regulating bodies, fishermen, seafood processors and retailers to adopt more sustainable fishing practices.
Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall welcomed the Prince's involvement and is quoted in The Telegraph saying: "This is absolutely the right approach. If the world's fish stocks were sustainably fished they could be more productive, not less.
"The Prince's involvement in environmental issues has the ability to rouse political will and business commitment. It is extremely welcome that he is to continue to turn the spotlight on the problems and the solutions."
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