World Population Day July 11
World Population Day on July 11 is a time to reflect on the impact of our growing global population. With more than 8 billion people living on Earth today, the challenge isn’t just how many of us there are – it’s how we live, what we consume, and how fairly resources are shared. It’s about making sure everyone, no matter where they are born, has access to the basic things we all need: food, clean water, healthcare, housing, and education.
As the population grows, the pressure on our natural resources increases. Feeding billions of people means we need food systems that are not only efficient but also fair and sustainable.
That’s where seafood comes in. Seafood is a key part of the solution. It’s rich in nutrients, lower in environmental impact than many land-based proteins, and already plays a vital role in feeding millions around the world.
Seafood is one of the most resource-efficient proteins we have. Whether it’s responsibly farmed fish or sustainably caught wild species, seafood can provide healthy, high-quality protein without putting as much strain on the planet. Compared to beef or lamb, for example, many seafood options use less land, less water, and produce fewer greenhouse gases. As we look for ways to feed a growing population, seafood offers an important path forward.
It’s also a food that supports health across all life stages. For children, seafood can help with brain development and growth. For pregnant women, it provides essential nutrients like omega-3s. For older adults, it supports heart and brain health, helping people live longer, healthier lives. In a world where age demographics are shifting – with many countries facing both younger and older populations at the same time – the nutritional value of seafood is more important than ever.
But access to this powerful protein isn’t equal. Many people, especially in low-income or remote communities, struggle to find or afford healthy seafood. That’s why equity in access matters. Everyone deserves the chance to eat nutritious, sustainably sourced food – regardless of where they live or how much money they make. Making seafood more available and affordable is not just a health issue; it’s a social justice issue.
We also have to think about how seafood is produced. The “blue food revolution” – a growing movement toward sustainable aquaculture and well-managed fisheries – has the potential to feed millions more people while supporting healthy ecosystems. But we need to make sure that this growth is done responsibly, with proper policies, innovation, and the inclusion of the people who depend on seafood for their livelihoods.
Empowering women and youth in the seafood sector is also critical. These groups are often underrepresented, yet they play essential roles in fishing, farming, and selling seafood. Supporting them through education, fair pay, and leadership opportunities strengthens communities and builds resilience. When we lift up women and young people, we create ripple effects that benefit entire regions
Consumers, too, have a role to play. The choices we make in supermarkets and restaurants can drive demand for more sustainable, ethical seafood. By being informed and choosing wisely, we help shape a food system that works for both people and the planet.
At SCA, we’re committed to doing our part. We promote responsible seafood consumption – helping people choose options that are good for their health and good for the environment. We work with producers, health experts, educators, and policymakers to make sure seafood has a strong place in global nutrition and sustainability efforts. We also speak up for those who are often left out of the conversation – especially low-income populations and coastal communities who depend on seafood every day.
On this World Population Day, let’s remember that we all have a shared responsibility. A healthy, fair, and sustainable future is possible – and seafood has a vital role to play in getting us there.