Respect for First Nations recognized in new Aquaculture Certification
 |
| Richard Harry addresses the Forum |
The first aboriginal certification for aquaculture in Canada is about to be awarded to Mainstream Canada for its operations in Ahousaht First Nation territory.
The Aboriginal Aquaculture Association received the independent audit report from ISO Metrix. This was a pilot project for the Aboriginal Principles of Sustainable Aquaculture (APSA) formally ACES.
AAA Executive Director Richard Harry said the certification was significant for both the company, for the Ahousaht people and for the entire aboriginal aquaculture industry.
“This is wonderful news and is an indicator of how far we have all come” he said. “APSA is a First Nations-driven initiative that will ensure that aquaculture is carried out in a manner that respects First Nations culture, values and ensures protection of First Nations aquatic resources. It is a positive approach to all issues: social, environmental and economic. This is the first step forward to a nationally recognized aboriginal inclusive certification program.”
The APSA standard requires First Nations and the applicant to work together and develop a local sustainability plan to ensure the aquaculture operations in their area are conducted in accordance with the principles in this standard and reflect the specific values and interest of the local First Nation...
