World Tuna Day
World Tuna Day celebrated every year on May 2 is an event dedicated to the versatile fish and promoting the importance of sustainable fishing practices.
The day was established by the United Nations in 2016 to highlight the environmental, economical, and nutritional significance of tuna.
The initiative was driven by Pacific island nations, where tuna is a primary economic resource and food staple.
History of Tuna Fishing
Tuna fishing has been very significant for several coastal regions as it not only provides food but jobs and a way of life as well. The history of tuna fishing goes back centuries ago when people invented special traps and fish processing methods.
Large scale tuna fishing was first developed by the Phoenicians who were an ancient seafaring people in the Mediterranean and Atlantic.
It was later adopted by the Greeks, particularly in the Black Sea and Aegean Sea.
Tuna fishing eventually spread to the Spanish Atlantic areas near Gibraltar.
Archaeologists have found evidence that the Phoenicians were among the first to develop this industry.
To preserve their catch, they used salt and built large salting pits. As they traveled across the Mediterranean, they introduced their fishing and preservation methods to new places. Today, archaeologists continue to discover these ancient salting pits near old Phoenician sites.
The Phoenicians were expert sailors and shipbuilders. They designed sturdy ships that were well-suited for tuna fishing.
Their ships likely carried many large clay jars, called amphorae, which helped store and preserve the fish. Some believe these jars also helped stabilize the ship as it sailed.
How to observe World Tuna Day
You can participate in this day by promoting sustainable fishing ideas and share information on social media about responsible seafood choices and the importance of protecting tuna populations.
Support sustainability by choosing tuna with eco-certifications like MSC or Dolphin Safe labels. This helps promote ethical fishing and protect marine life.
Get involved in conservation efforts by joining beach cleanups, donating to marine protection groups, or supporting policies that encourage sustainable fishing.
Enjoy tuna responsibly by cooking dishes made with sustainably sourced fish, like grilled yellow fin steaks or homemade sushi.
