Public consultation: Review of the Fisheries Standard Toolbox

Welcome to the public consultation on proposed changes to the MSC Fisheries Standard and Toolbox

About this consultation
This consultation is open to all stakeholders for 60 days from 10 July, closing on 10 September at 1700 Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

The MSC Fisheries Standard Toolbox is a document that was introduced with Version 3 of the Standard and contains several tools that support fishery assessments. A review of the Toolbox is currently underway, focusing on two key tools: the Evidence Requirements Framework (ERF) and the Risk-based Framework (RBF). 

This review began in July 2024. An updated Toolbox is expected to be published in early 2027, alongside an updated version of the Fisheries Standard.

Proposals for an updated Toolbox and Standard have been developed following initial pilot testing with CAB representatives and assessors. This public consultation seeks further feedback from stakeholders to help refine the proposals and ensure that intended outcomes within the Standard and Toolbox are achieved. There will be further testing and impact assessments carried out following this public consultation.

Supporting material
We encourage you to review the following documents before answering the questions below.

The Summary of Proposals - we recommend starting with this.
The full proposals can be found in draft versions of the Fisheries Standard Toolbox and the Fisheries Standard, with proposed text changes highlighted using track changes.

Familiarity with the MSC Fisheries Standard and certification process will help you participate effectively in this consultation.

If you would like to enroll in further training on the Standard, please email onlinetraining@msc.org with your full name, email address, and affiliation.

Instructions for this survey
In this survey you will be shown a list of three areas where changes are proposed and asked to indicate which changes you wish to comment on. The survey will then show you the questions related to those topics.

On each topic page you will see links to background information. It is recommended that you read the background information closely before answering the questions.

You may wish to download a Microsoft Word copy of the survey in advance. This will allow you to view, share, and discuss questions with colleagues before providing answers. Unfortunately, you will not be able to save your progress and return later if you have not submitted your responses, however you complete and submit the survey you will be able to return at a later date up until the 10th September to modify your responses.

Note: Depending on your familiarity with the Standard and Toolbox, and the extent of feedback you wish to provide, the full survey may take approximately 1 hour to complete. However, if you choose to respond only to selected sections, it may take significantly less time. You are welcome to focus on the sections most relevant to your knowledge, experience, or interests. If a question falls outside your expertise, feel free to select "I don't know" where applicable. Each question also includes an open-ended section where you can provide additional comments or context, should you wish to do so.

If you are unable to complete this survey for any reason, feel that language is a barrier to participation, or have any other questions, please email us at fisheries@msc.org. We will do our best to accommodate any requests for support.

8% of survey complete.