Aquaculture Stewardship Council Reports Significant Growth in 2024

The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has announced impressive progress in its initiatives aimed at enhancing environmental performance, animal welfare, and workers’ rights, as highlighted in its 2024 impact report.

“In 2024, ASC accelerated its mission with increased uptake of farm certification, milestone achievements in feed certification, and the finalization of the pioneering ASC Farm Standard, laying the groundwork for an even more impactful 2025 and beyond,” the report states.

Key Growth Metrics

The number of ASC-certified farms surged by nearly 10% in 2024, bringing the total to 2,265 across 52 countries. This expansion resulted in 3,981 environmental and 3,250 social “responsibility improvements,” showcasing the tangible benefits of certified aquaculture.

In terms of market impact, sales of ASC-certified seafood soared by 32% year-on-year, totaling 2.69 million metric tons across 121 countries. Additionally, consumers benefitted from a diverse range of options, as the number of ASC-labelled products increased by 12% to 28,426.

Sustainability in Feed Production

Progress in feed sustainability was also notable, with 22 feed mills certified under the ASC Feed Standard and another 24 mills currently undergoing assessment. Moreover, 14 Aquaculture Improvement Projects have facilitated advancements at 139 sites, further strengthening the industry’s commitment to sustainable practices.

A Pivotal Shift in Aquaculture

Chief Technical Officer Ally Dingwall emphasized that 2024 marked a crucial turning point for the organization, positioning feed as a central component of responsible aquaculture. “The ASC feed standard in its first full year of adoption has garnered commitment across the value chain—from feed mills to retailers—driving meaningful change far beyond the farm gates,” Dingwall noted.

Access the Full Report

The detailed findings and insights can be explored further in the full report, available here.

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