The Real Reason Global Fish Stocks Are Declining — And What You Can Do About It

Although the oceans are already changing, advocates say it’s not too late to do some serious damage control. This includes the decline of global fishing stocks.

By Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi
Nov 8, 2022 9:00 PM
Overfishing
(Credit: Rich Carey/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Atlantic cod, halibut and salmon. All three pair nicely with a lemon-butter sauce, a side of pomme purée and a glass of white wine. Yet no matter the preparation, a fresh catch from New England’s coastal waters is always enjoyable — and perhaps a bit too much. These seafood staples are now on the U.S. government’s list of depleting fish stocks.

On a global scale, advocates say depleting fish stocks are the most urgent threat to oceans and immediate change is needed. In some waters, consumer demand for certain seafood is to blame for the smaller stocks; in other areas, environmental issues are harming marine life. Either way, it’s a complicated problem to solve because it involves a whole host of nations, organizations and research institutes.  

Understanding Overfishing

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.