Rationale 3.13

If conducted irresponsibly, any economic activity can potentially create negative impacts or infringe on the legal and customary rights of neighbouring Indigenous and tribal people, and local communities as established in ILO conventions.8484International Labour Organization (ILO). (1989). Indigenous and Tribal Populations, 1989 (No. 169). Geneva, Switzerland: ILO.

Local communities that depend on fishing or agriculture may face economic challenges or risks to their food security as aquaculture operations may compete with, or deplete, their resources. Customary rights of Indigenous and tribal people to use specific lands and waters for cultural or subsistence activities may also be affected. Aquaculture operations may also affect communities in other ways, such as by increasing traffic or causing pollution.

This Criterion focuses on how ASC-certified farms can create positive relationships with the local community. This involves understanding potential adverse impacts, acknowledging legal and customary rights, constructive and continuous engagement, and the involvement of the local community and Indigenous people in business ventures.

Intent – The aquaculture industry supports local development and conducts meaningful community engagement.