The FAO definition of sustainable development and the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries: an analysis of the related principles, criteria and indicators

Abstract

In 1988, FAO adopted its definition of sustainable development. In 1995 it adopted a Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries, which offers an integrated comprehensive framework for the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture. The paper analyses briefly the correspondence between the principles contained in the definition and the provisions contained in the Code. It shows that both texts represent a sustainability framework (with different degree of detail) and identifies the main criteria and indicators implicitly or explicitly called for in both the FAO definition and Code of Conduct.