Sang-Jin Park, CEO of Dongwon Industries, wants to learn the best practices and strengths that science can provide.
SeaBOS brings together some of the world’s largest seafood companies and leading scientists to address complex sustainability challenges, develop a more sustainable seafood industry and improve ocean health. But what convinced each of these companies to join SeaBOS? And what do they ultimately hope to achieve? We asked the CEOs from each company to share their vision and ambitions about SeaBOS and the future of their industry.
When it comes to getting fish from the ocean to consumers, Dongwon Industries covers the whole supply chain—from owning a fleet of around 40 vessels to cold storage to packaging and more. While tuna is Dongwon Industries’ main catch, other seafood, aquaculture and processed fish are other products they supply. As Korea’s largest seafood conglomerate, Dongwon Industries understands the responsibility that comes with serving a global market.
“By joining SeaBOS, we aim to learn the best practices and strengths,” said Sang-Jin Park, CEO of Dongwon Industries, adding that the hope is that SeaBOS will help bolster their sustainability efforts with respect to ocean protection and seafood production.
SeaBOS as a forum to learn from other companies
One part of SeaBOS’ mission is to create a platform for companies to learn and share. “SeaBOS has provided a network where leading companies in the global seafood industry can discuss important topics and learn best practices,” said Park.
Park believes that Dongwon Industries is doing well, but observing the activities of other members offered new perspectives and opportunities for change. Having multiple organizations with diverse initiatives come together can have a positive overall impact on society, Park added.
While companies try to implement policies and initiatives, loopholes still sometimes exist. Having SeaBOS as a resource to advise on best practices, implementation, and spot unseen issues, can be a resource for the company and have an overall impact on society, said Park.
An sustainable fishing industry
All seafood industries are connected through the health of the fish populations. Without a healthy stock, both supply chains and value chains will suffer. To create a sustainable seafood industry, both the ecology and economics must be aligned.
“To achieve a sustainable industry there must be adequate compensation for the companies pursuing it,” said Park. “If stakeholders respect and recognize the efforts and investments of companies towards sustainability, it will enable us to share the values we pursue with other companies.”
Take the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification as a good example, Park said. At first, the barriers to getting MSC certified deterred companies. Now there is market value, it has consumer value, and many companies strive to achieve certification.
When it comes to developing a gold standard around improved ocean health and sustainable seafood production, SeaBOS has a central role to play. “We hope SeaBOS plays a crucial role in coordinating global cooperation, enhancing communication with policymakers and companies, and supporting technology development and educational programs,” said Park.
