The role of certifications and eco-labels in fisheries: a systematic literature review of their benefits and challenges

Eco-labels are market tools that provide consumers with relevant information, enabling more informed and sustainable purchasing decisions. As fisheries operate on a high production scale, it is possible to dilute the costs of implementing and maintaining these initiatives. However, as the production scale decreases, small producing communities may need help participating in product certification processes. In global contexts, where consumer markets become increasingly demanding, the need for certification can translate into a barrier to selling such products. In this context, the present article aims to investigate existing certifications in the literature for large- and small-scale fisheries and their benefits and challenges for the fisheries. The systematic literature review was conducted to achieve the research objectives. A total of 38 articles were analyzed for this study. The Marine Stewardship Council emerged as the most recognizable certification body worldwide. Market access was the benefit of this certification scheme. On the other hand, small-scale fisheries face barriers in obtaining this market access tool, with costs being the primary challenge cited. Certification schemes can significantly enhance the fisheries value chain by fostering better interactions between fisheries stakeholders and reshaping the structure of small-scale fisheries.