ICELAND RESPONSIBLE FISHERIES SCHEME

Iceland Responsible Fisheries Scheme. The first of a series of features by Fish Focus, starting with our spotlight on Iceland. We will be posting an article every day, covering this amazing trip and showcasing the Icelandic Seafood industry, Icelandic heritage and the hospitality of the Icelandic people. You can read the whole publication here

Iceland Responsible Fisheries Foundation

The Iceland Responsible Fisheries Foundation owns and operates the brand of Iceland Responsible Fisheries. The Foundation was established in February 2011 and took over the operation and management of the Iceland Responsible Fisheries (IRF) certification programme from the Fisheries Association of Iceland.

The Foundation’s role is to make and maintain contracts for the certification programme, promote and communicate with stakeholders.

A technical committee is responsible for all the technical work, specifications and certification, as well as communication with certification and public bodies.

The IRF Scheme

The Iceland Responsible Fisheries (IRF) scheme is a certification programme that verifies Icelandic fisheries as responsible and sustainable.

This scheme is critical for maintaining Iceland’s reputation as a leader in sustainable fishing practices.

The IRF certification ensures that Icelandic fisheries are managed in a way that preserves marine ecosystems, ensures the long-term viability of fish stocks, and supports the local economy.

The IRF scheme aims to promote sustainable fisheries management and responsible fishing practices in Iceland.

Certification Process

Fisheries or companies apply for certification by submitting relevant information about their operations after which an independent third-party assessor evaluates the fishery against the IRF standards, which are based on the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation) Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.

The assessor verifies that the fishery meets all the required criteria, including sustainable stock management, minimal environmental impact, and effective management systems. Then, If the fishery meets the IRF standards, it is granted certification, which is valid for a specific period, usually five years. The fishery is subject to annual audits to ensure continued
compliance.

Benefits of IRF Certification

The IRF certification provides numerous benefits:

• Market Access: Certified fisheries gain access to international markets that demand sustainably sourced seafood.
• Consumer Confidence: The certification assures consumers that the seafood they purchase is responsibly sourced and contributes to sustainable fishing practices.
• Environmental Stewardship: Certified fisheries contribute to the preservation of marine environments and biodiversity.
• Economic Benefits: Sustainable fishing practices ensure the long-term viability of the fishing industry, supporting local communities and economies.

The IRF logo on seafood products indicates that they come from responsibly managed fisheries, reinforcing Iceland’s reputation for high- quality and sustainable seafood.