Hey Lykkers! When it comes to what’s on your plate, seafood often feels like a clean, simple option. But the truth is, not all fish are caught or farmed the same way—and some methods seriously impact the planet. Overfishing, habitat damage, and poor animal welfare practices are all part of the story behind unsustainable seafood.

The good news? You don’t need to become a marine expert to make better choices. This guide is here to help you navigate the world of seafood with curiosity and confidence. We’ll walk through what sustainability means in the ocean world and show you how to pick seafood that’s better for both the environment and the animals involved.

Part 1: Understanding the Impact of Seafood

Let’s dive into what sustainability really means when it comes to seafood—and why your choices matter more than you think.

Overfishing Affects Entire Ecosystems

Overfishing happens when fish are taken from the ocean faster than they can naturally replenish. This doesn’t just hurt one species—it can disrupt entire food chains. When large fish disappear, smaller ones boom, and balance is lost. Choosing species that are caught responsibly helps preserve marine harmony.

Not All Fishing Methods Are Equal

Some techniques cause serious environmental damage. For example, bottom trawling scrapes across the sea floor, destroying habitats that take decades to recover. Other methods, like purse seining, can accidentally trap animals like dolphins or turtles. When you choose seafood caught with low-impact gear, you’re protecting more than just fish.

Farming Can Be Good—or Not So Good

Aquaculture (fish farming) isn’t always the villain, but it’s not always the hero either. In the best cases, farmed seafood reduces pressure on wild populations. But poorly managed farms can lead to pollution, overcrowding, and disease. It's worth checking how and where farmed fish are raised before buying.

Label Confusion Is Real

You’ve probably seen terms like “wild-caught,” “farm-raised,” or “sustainable” on packages. But what do they actually mean? Some terms are regulated, while others are just marketing fluff. That’s where trusted certifications come in—more on those in a moment.

Part 2: Making Better Seafood Decisions

Now let’s get practical. Here are ways you can enjoy seafood without compromising your values or the planet’s health.

Look for Trusted Certifications

Labels like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council), ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council), and Ocean Wise help guide you toward responsible choices. These certifications mean the product meets standards for environmental impact and, often, welfare practices too. If it’s certified, you can feel more confident about what you’re eating.

Explore the “Best Choice” Species

Not all seafood is created equal. Some species—like sardines, mussels, and Alaskan wild salmon—are known for being abundant, well-managed, and low-impact. You can check online guides like the Seafood Watch list from Monterey Bay Aquarium to see what’s recommended in your region. Bookmark it, and use it when you shop or order out.

Ask Questions When You Shop or Dine

Don’t be shy about asking where the fish came from. Was it farmed or wild-caught? What country or region is it from? A good supplier or restaurant should be able to answer. The more people ask, the more pressure there is for businesses to source responsibly.

Reduce Waste and Try Variety

Another easy way to support sustainability is to use all the seafood you buy and try less common species. When we only eat the same few fish—like tuna or shrimp—it puts intense pressure on those stocks. Exploring new options supports underused fisheries and helps balance the system.

So Lykkers, sustainable seafood isn’t just about avoiding a few species or buying a certain label—it’s about making thoughtful, informed choices that ripple out into the ocean. By paying attention to how your seafood is caught or farmed, supporting certified sources, and asking the right questions, you’re helping to protect marine life and ecosystems. The ocean may be vast, but every small choice you make can help keep it thriving for generations to come.