18 September, 2006

SHETLAND based organic cod farming business Johnson Seafarms won the Highlands & Islands Business Award for Excellence in Environmental Sustainability, last Friday night.

The company is the first ever aquaculture businesses to win the SNH sponsored award.

The award presented to the company at the Scottish Council for Development and Industry Highlands & Islands annual dinner recognises active involvement in local nature promotion and incorporates environmental sustainability as criteria in businesses decisions.

Managing director Karol Rzepkowski said: "This is great accolade for all our hardworking staff at Johnson Seafarms.

"As pioneers of the world's first truly sustainable, organic cod, we acknowledge our responsibility to act in a manner, which not only respects but also exceeds environmental standards.

"Our cod is reared in a highly sophisticated, pristine and sustainable environment which allows consumers to once again enjoy cod without threatening its future existence."

This win is the latest in a series of awards for Johnson Seafarms. Last week, it won a silver award at The Soil Association Organic Food Awards, and earlier this year its retail brand, No Catch…Just Cod, was awarded the prestigious 'Supreme Award' at the Scottish Food and Drink Excellence Awards.

In July, Johnson Seafarms won The Crown Estate Marine Business Award for its strong focus on sustainability, the environment and fish welfare as well as its significant investment in research and development for the future.

The company is working closely with the Organic Food Federation, the Soil Association, Marine Conservation Society ('organic, farmed cod' is listed in their latest fish to eat guide) and the RSPCA to ensure its farmed cod meets the most stringent standards for quality and sustainability.