Tunacons sets a global milestone in responsible fishing innovation
The Ecuadorian initiative Tunacons has solidified its leadership in sustainable fishing after deploying over 5,000 sustainable fish aggregating devices (ECOfads) in the eastern Pacific Ocean over the past four years. These FADs—biodegradable, non-polluting, and non-entangling—represent a revolution in tuna fishing, with full respect for marine biodiversity.
Tunacons director Guillermo Morán stated in an interview with Radio WQ that this transformation was neither simple nor improvised: “It took years of research, more than two million dollars in investment, numerous at-sea trials, and strong cooperation with fishing captains.” The process culminated in the development of an efficient, eco-friendly, and viable prototype that is now being produced at scale.
Starting in 2026, the use of these FADs will be mandatory for the entire tuna fleet operating in the eastern Pacific, thanks to a resolution by the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC). “We’re not only pioneers in Ecuador; we are leading globally. This has been acknowledged in international forums, where captains and experts from Asia, Europe, and North America agree we’re on the right track,” said Morán.
One of the greatest achievements has been the shift in mindset among captains. Initially hesitant, fearing lower productivity, many now report better fishing results with ECOfads. Thanks to natural materials like abacá, balsa, and organic rubber—all sourced in Ecuador—the lifespan of these FADs has been extended to nearly five months without harming the marine environment.
Moreover, this innovation has opened new international markets, especially in Europe, where countries like Germany, Norway, and the Netherlands value responsible practices and certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). The transformation benefits not only the 58 industrial vessels in the Tunacons fleet but also positions Ecuador as a global benchmark in sustainability.
“This is not just a speech—it’s a verifiable reality. We’ve presented at fairs, forums, and international events where Ecuador’s work has been recognized. Our goal is to keep growing partnerships and expand these best practices beyond our borders,” Morán concluded.