What is the SEG standard?
The SEG standard describes the standards to which those who trade in the European eel must comply if they wish to claim to be doing so responsibly.
What does it mean?
Achieving the SEG standard means that the business is:
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acting responsibly, according to a code of conduct for best practice in the commercial eel sector
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trading in certified responsibly sourced European eel
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playing its part in making a positive contribution to the European eel population
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To achieve the standard, businesses must show that their work methods and handling practices meet the requirements of the SEG standard during an independent assessment. When the eels have also been sourced and tracked throughout the supply chain, then the claim for traceability can be validated with appropriate labeling.
It allows consumers and those in the supply chain to choose to purchase eels certified as caught, handled and traded responsibly, and according to best practice.
What is its purpose?
The purpose of the SEG standard has been defined by the SEG Board, in support of its Theory of Change as:
To maximise the contribution of eel fishers, ranchers, aquaculturalists, traders and consumers of eel products to the restoration of healthy eel populations, distributed throughout their natural range, fulfilling their role in the aquatic environment and supporting sustainable use for the benefit of communities, local economies and traditions.
The standard has been developed as part of the solution for the sustainable recovery of the European eel. It is designed to:
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Enable operators to demonstrate high standards and their commitment to sustainability
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Encourage high and responsible standards through the supply chain, from fishery to market
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Encourage responsible practices and markets
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Provide confidence to consumers who wish to buy responsibly
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How does it work?
Gaining certification
This is a summary of the process to gain certification under the SEG standard:
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Client registers an interest to seek assessment and gain certification under the standard, by contacting Standard@SustainableEelGroup.org
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SEG provides contacts for approved Certification Bodies. This is available here.
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Client contacts a qualified Certification Body to arrange assessment
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Certification Body completes the assessment and provides a draft report for comment to the Client before finalising
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Certification Body provides confirms the outcome of the assessment to the Client, with certificate and supporting documentation (e.g. SEG Standard Conditions of Use)
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