Safeguarding the well-being of the world's population is the responsibility of every individual. Any effort to conserve natural resources for future generations is a worthy cause. A proponent of sustainable fishing, Parlevliet & Van der Plas (PP) fulfils its duty in helping preserve the environment with fishing methods that respect the ecosystem. "We play a role in feeding the world. We want to preserve the capital and only catch the interest," says CEO Diederik Parlevliet. "We care for the environment to ensure that fish stocks continue to be productive. Sustainability and quality are important for the future of this industry." Family-owned PP is a pelagic, demersal and shrimp fishing company renowned for its great respect for ecological balance. PP catches mackerel, herring, haddock, cod and halibut, among others. With a fleet of more than 25 vessels, PP owns the world's largest fishing vessel, the Annelies Ilena, which spans 144 metres by 24 metres. PP's commitment to sustainability will continue to be crucial as food consumption grows directly proportional with the population. According to a World Bank report, Asia will account for 70 per cent of the global fish consumption by 2030. Of this figure, China's consumption represents 30 per cent. Alongside the growing seafood consumption in China, PP has also observed a greater demand for more expensive fish such as halibut and herring among China's emerging middle class. With most of its products bearing a quality seal, PP is in a prime position to cater to China's increasing interest in premium goods. Most of PP's catch comes with an eco-label certified by the Marine Stewardship Council, an organisation developing standards for best practices in fishing and seafood traceability. "Travelling globally, the Chinese are tasting things they want to bring home. We're hoping to cater to their new tastes in fish," Parlevliet says. Parlevliet & Van der Plas http://www.pp-group.eu
