About Sustainable Systems | Ainan Fisheries Cooperative (official website)

Sustainable aquaculture as the keyword for producers working with the fishermen's cooperative

In order to connect the rich ocean and industry to the future, the Ainan Fisheries Cooperative will actively utilize the Fisheries Eco Label certification, and the Red Sea Bream will work with supporting producers, from large-scale producers with top domestic production to small and medium-sized producers.
Each producer participating in the initiative complies with the number of cages, number of fish farmed, and breeding density for each fishing ground, and is working with a particular focus on sustainable aquaculture.

Examples of shipping companies: Yasutaka Suisan, Usa Suisan, Nakata Suisan, Onishi Suisan, Nansui

Obtained MEL aquaculture certification standard!

MEL Aquaculture Certification Standard acquired!

Marine Ecolabel Japan (Marine Eco-Label Japan, abbreviation: MEL) is a collaboration between fisheries and aquaculture producers who actively conduct management that takes into consideration the preservation of the environment and ecosystems, in order to use marine resources sustainably. This is a seafood eco-label that certifies businesses that process and distribute seafood from producers.

This is the first Japanese seafood ecolabel to be examined using an internationally recognized method. (Approved by Global Sustainable Seafood Initiative)

It complies with the guidelines of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and consists of the following four requirements.

Steady fulfillment of social responsibility in aquaculture production activities
Consideration should be given to the health and welfare of target aquatic organisms.
Food safety is ensured
Consideration has been given to environmental conservation.

MEL certified producers creating traceability

As producers, we are centered on two companies (Yasutaka Suisan and Usa Suisan) that boast one of the top production scales in Japan (red sea bream), and we provide stable shipments of full-size fish all year round.
Because we are the number one producer of farmed red sea bream in Japan, we strive to provide a stable supply throughout the year.

We keep records related to aquaculture, including the breeding environment and conditions for red sea bream, as well as the place where the feed is manufactured and the history of feeding, and we can attach a history certificate to those who wish to do so.

Responding to plastic issues at production sites

Production sites' plastic problem response efforts

We believe that it is extremely important to promote the appropriate use and disposal of plastic fishing gear in order to prevent used fishing gear from flowing into the ocean.

Ainan Fisheries Cooperative has introduced recycling techniques such as reducing the volume of used Styrofoam floats.

SDGs Initiatives

Ainan Fisheries Cooperative supports the "Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)" advocated by the United Nations and will actively work towards realizing a sustainable society.

SDGs stands for "Sustainable Development Goals" and was adopted at the United Nations Summit in September 2015 with the international goal of realization by 2030.
Under the vow of "leave no one behind," the action plans for humans, the planet and prosperity consist of 17 goals and 169 targets, including "poverty," "health and welfare," "education," "motivation," and "climate."
The SDGs are universal, not only in developing countries but also in developed countries themselves, and are being actively pursued in Japan.

Initiatives towards the Achievement of SDGs

Initiative 1. Thorough environmental measures

We will carry out environmentally friendly activities and strive to preserve the environment of the area and its rich fishing grounds, which are blessed with a ria coastline and the Kuroshio Current in the Pacific Ocean.

[Specific initiatives]

Introduced foam buoy compression volume reduction machine to prevent microplastics
Regular ocean and local cleanup activities
Conduct regular education and training on environmental issues
Promoting garbage separation and recycling

Initiative 2. Providing safe and secure marine products

As a production and distribution base that can provide distinctive, safe and secure marine products nationwide, we will actively promote the improvement of brand power and stable supply of marine products.

[Specific initiatives]

Obtained certification of the aquaculture eco-label "MEL" for "Ainan Fisheries Cooperative Madai Aquaculture", "Ainan Fisheries Cooperative Yellowtail Aquaculture", etc.
Establishment of a system to accept the "Shikoku-ichi catch" bonito and branding of Ainan Biyabiya Bonito
Providing high-quality seafood nationwide using online shops
Overseas export of fresh farmed red sea bream
“The Ainan Experience! White Hot Summer” PR through sponsorship and media

Providing safe and secure marine products

Initiative 3. Local contribution

By supporting our members' business activities, hiring local human resources, and providing "Gyoshoku education," we will contribute to the realization of a sustainable local community filled with "vibrant fishermen of the future."

[Specific initiatives]

Reorganization of fisheries-related facilities and development of core personnel under the “Beach Vitality Revitalization Plan”
Actively utilize local human resources
Implementation of workplace tours and on-site classes at schools
Participation in regional revitalization and industrial development
Providing ingredients to children's cafeterias

Initiative 4. Thorough compliance and creating job satisfaction

In addition to ensuring thorough compliance, we will strive to create a workplace environment where each employee can feel motivated and contribute to the development of local industry.

[Specific initiatives]

Training to prevent violations and information leaks during work
Training to prevent harassment
Implementation of measures to prevent long working hours and unpaid overtime by employees
Encouraging employees to acquire qualifications and establishing an award system to improve their abilities and job satisfaction
Institutionalization of vacation and reduced working hours
Efforts by the Women's Committee to promote the active participation of women

Ensuring thorough compliance and creating job satisfaction