International Day of Fish

August 22nd is International Day of Fish – a date that has remained relatively quiet until now, but must become increasingly louder. For hardly any animal group is as diverse and simultaneously as threatened as fish.

Over 30,000 species are known: from the tiny stickleback in Swiss streams to the majestic bluefin tuna in the Mediterranean. "Fish are as important to our ecosystems as bees are on land – but hardly anyone talks about them," says biologist Anne Keller from WWF.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization FAO warns that one-third of fish stocks are overfished. Particularly problematic are sought-after species like salmon or tuna. While mass-produced farmed salmon is produced in Norwegian fjords, wild populations struggle for survival. In Swiss rivers too, populations of grayling and trout have declined dramatically in recent decades.

Climate Change and Pollution in Water

Added to this are the burden of microplastics and rising water temperatures. "When rivers become too warm in summer, entire ecosystems collapse," warns Keller. The Rhine is an example: once home to sturgeon, it has now almost disappeared. Projects are attempting to reintroduce it – but success depends on how clean and cool the water remains.

Fish on the Plate – and What We Can Change

Fish is unfortunately a matter of course on many people's menus. Worldwide, over three billion people obtain their most important animal protein from fish. But what can consumers do?

• Check labels: Look for MSC or ASC certifications.
• Think regional: Trout or whitefish from local waters are often more sustainable than imported farmed salmon.
• Less is more: Treat fish as a luxury item, not an everyday commodity.

International Day of Fish is not an official UN holiday – but its message is gaining weight. It reminds us that the future of oceans and rivers is also decided in our shopping carts. Or, as Anne Keller puts it: "Fish don't need flowers on memorial day. They need cold, clean water – and less pressure from us humans."

You can help all animals and our planet with compassion. Choose compassion on your plate and in your glass. Go vegan.