Op-Ed | Sustainable Aquaculture & Climate Action in LA Weekly
In collaboration with Eric Schwaab of the Environmental Defense Fund, I co-authored an op-ed in LA Weekly on sustainable aquaculture, climate action, and the future of our seafood supply. The piece makes a clear case for expanding science-based aquaculture in the United States as a necessary response to climate-driven ocean disruptions and the growing vulnerability of global seafood systems.
The article, titled “Climate change is threatening our supply of fish. To save seafood, we’ll need to grow it sustainably,” draws a straight line between climate-driven ocean disasters—like the billion shellfish that boiled alive in the Pacific Northwest—and the need to build a resilient, domestic seafood system here in the U.S.
We pointed out a hard truth: the U.S. imports 85% of its seafood, and much of it comes from countries without the same environmental or labor standards. By expanding science-based aquaculture at home, we can improve traceability, support coastal economies, and reduce our environmental footprint.
This work is personal for both of us. Eric served as head of the National Marine Fisheries Service under President Obama, and I’ve spent years advocating on Capitol Hill as a chef and food systems activist. Together, we argue that chefs, scientists, and lawmakers all have a role in shaping an ocean food future that is climate-smart, economically viable, and ethically sound.
One of the most powerful stats we included: 84% of American voters support aquaculture policies that set high environmental standards. The public is ready for this shift—we just need political will and culinary leadership to meet the moment.
If we want to protect our oceans, preserve our menus, and continue enjoying things like grilled fish tacos, shucked oysters, and fried fish & chips, it’s time to embrace regenerative seafood as a solution.
📰 Read the full op-ed here: LA Weekly – Save Our Seafood
More of my writing, conversations, and food activism work can be found on my Voice page.