"Dolphin free," often used interchangeably with "dolphin safe," refers to tuna fishing practices that ensure no dolphins are intentionally harmed, killed, or encircled during the capture of tuna. This label signifies a commitment to protecting marine life by employing specific fishing methods.
Historical Context and Definition
The concept of "dolphin free" emerged from significant concern over the bycatch of dolphins in tuna fisheries, particularly in the Eastern Tropical Pacific. Dolphins often swim above schools of yellowfin tuna, making them vulnerable to capture when large nets, known as purse-seine nets, are deployed to encircle tuna.
A pivotal moment occurred in 1990, when the organization Earth Island Institute and tuna companies in the US agreed to a specific definition. They defined Dolphin Safe tuna as tuna caught without setting nets on or near dolphins. This agreement laid the groundwork for the "dolphin free" movement, aiming to drastically reduce dolphin mortality associated with tuna fishing.
How Tuna is Fished to Be 'Dolphin Free'
Achieving "dolphin free" status requires the adoption of fishing methods that prioritize dolphin welfare. This primarily involves avoiding the direct encirclement of dolphins.
Key practices include:
- Avoiding Dolphin Sets: Fishermen do not intentionally set their nets around schools of dolphins, even if tuna are swimming beneath them. This is the cornerstone of dolphin-safe fishing.
- Alternative Fishing Methods:
- Pole-and-Line: Tuna are caught one by one using poles and lines, a highly selective method with minimal bycatch.
- FAD-Free Purse Seines: Instead of relying on dolphins, fishermen may use purse-seine nets around free-swimming schools of tuna, or around natural or man-made Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs), but critically, the FADs themselves must be managed responsibly to minimize bycatch of other species.
- Longline Fishing: While not always dolphin-safe, responsibly managed longline fisheries can be, provided specific measures are taken to avoid interactions with marine mammals.
Certification and Labeling
To help consumers make informed choices, various "dolphin free" or "dolphin safe" labeling programs exist. These labels indicate that the product meets certain standards designed to protect dolphins.
Consumers should look for specific certifications to ensure the tuna they purchase meets these ethical standards.
| Label/Claim | Meaning in Context of Tuna Fishing | Primary Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Dolphin Free | Tuna caught without intentionally harming or killing dolphins. | Prevent dolphin mortality from fishing. |
| Dolphin Safe | Certified that tuna was caught without setting nets on or near dolphins. | Ensure responsible, dolphin-friendly fishing practices. |
| Pole & Line Caught | Tuna caught individually with a hook and line; inherently safe for dolphins. | Minimal bycatch and reduced environmental impact. |
Consumer Impact and Ethical Choices
By choosing "dolphin free" or "dolphin safe" tuna, consumers play a direct role in promoting sustainable and ethical fishing practices. This demand encourages the fishing industry to adopt more responsible methods, contributing to the conservation of dolphin populations.
When shopping for tuna:
- Look for Certified Labels: Seek out recognizable logos, such as the widely recognized "Dolphin Safe" logo, which is often managed by organizations like the Earth Island Institute (conceptual link to a standard-setting body).
- Read Product Information: Check the packaging for details on fishing methods used or commitments to dolphin protection.
- Support Responsible Brands: Patronize companies that openly declare their adherence to dolphin-safe standards.
