• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content

SALT.

Search Toggle
  • What is Salt?
  • Principles
  • Seascape Map
  • Story Hub
  • Supply Chain
  • Dive Deeper
  • Search Toggle

Comprehensive Traceability Principles

  • Principles
    • Data-informed decisions
    • Electronic, interoperable, and secure
    • Inclusive and collaborative
    • Lasting and scalable
    • Maximized benefits
    • Verification and data needs
  • About the Principles
  • Apply Them
  • Resources

Pathway to the Principles

ecdt-principles chart of initiate, design, and implementThe Pathway to the Principles details steps to apply the Principles when administering or improving a comprehensive electronic catch documentation and traceability (eCDT) program. A seafood traceability program that is comprehensive means it uses captured data to realize three potential benefits: ecological, social, and economic. Three phases (Initiate, Design, and Implement) guide users through a series of potential steps when administering a comprehensive eCDT program. 

Featured at the left of each step is the icon matching one of the six relevant Principles. Clicking on any of the steps will reveal more information and examples of relevant guidance to support application.

Principles Key

icon for Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits
Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits
icon for Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders
Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders
icon for Use data to inform decision-making
Use data to inform decision-making
icon for Build a lasting and scalable program
Build a lasting and scalable program
icon for Create a program that is electronic, interoperable, and data secure
Create a program that is electronic, interoperable, and data secure
icon for Address data and verification needs across fisheries and supply chains
Address data and verification needs across fisheries and supply chains
  • Initiate
  • ccartoon of person sitting with another explaining a chart
    Design
  • cartoon of fish with tag for tracing
    Implement
inclusive icon
1- Define goals and scale of eCDT system
principle applied: inclusive icon Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders

Relevant Guidance

WWF Standards of Conservation Project and Programme Management

World Wildlife Fund
2007
This document contains an overview of the WWF Network’s Standards of Conservation Project and Programme Management. Page 10 has specific guidance on how to create an action plan by identifying goals, objectives, and activities.Press enter to go to this resource, WWF Standards of Conservation Project and Programme Management
Find More Relevant Resources
bar chart icon
2- Learn from existing systems
  • Review past eCDT programs and lessons learned to avoid common pitfalls. Consider reviewing recommendations from traceability programs outside of seafood to understand data needs
principle applied: bar chart icon Use data to inform decision-making

Relevant Guidance

Learning Site Experiences and Lessons Learned: General Santos, Philippines

USAID Oceans & Fisheries Partnership
2020
This report documents lessons learned and next steps from USAID Oceans & Fisheries Partnership’s experience developing and testing seafood traceability systems; implementing sustainable fisheries management plans; empowering women and promoting gender equity; and bringing together government and industry to ensure seafood traceability in General Santos, Philippines.Press enter to go to this resource, Learning Site Experiences and Lessons Learned: General Santos, Philippines

The journey of implementing electronic traceability and blockchain technology in the Indonesian handline tuna fishery

Anova Food USA and the International Pole & Line Foundation (IPNLF)
2019
This case study tells the story of Anova Food USA's collaborative work on traceability improvements in Indonesia since 2009, consisting of several successive projects piloting, developing, testing and scaling of various electronic traceability technologies in the Indonesian handline tuna fishery.Press enter to go to this resource, The journey of implementing electronic traceability and blockchain technology in the Indonesian handline tuna fishery
Find More Relevant Resources
bar chart icon
3- Conduct research, assessment, or gap analyses on the existing systems and enabling environment to identify supporting regulatory frameworks, enforcement, and political will
  • Identify and access what exists to support the comprehensive eCDT program (i.e., infrastructure, data and data systems architecture, regulatory enforcement measures, interested institutions, or relevant private sector initiatives)
  • Assess stakeholder and institutional perceptions of the possibility of an entirely new program, including its socio-economic impacts (cost implications of developing, adopting, using, etc.) to mitigate unintended consequences such as negative environmental or human rights impacts
    • Consider analyzing the different impacts to men/women and other key stakeholder demographics
  • Leverage existing or encourage creation of supportive partnerships between governments and businesses in order for both groups to best fulfill their complementary roles as outlined in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights
  • Check for norms, policies, and government enforcement regarding health and safety, core human rights principles (i.e., the ILO core conventions, engagement with national or global trade unions), and the right to free speech without fear of retribution, to stay abreast of the law or identify any human rights gaps
principle applied: bar chart icon Use data to inform decision-making

Relevant Guidance

Assessing Fisheries in a New Era: Extended Guidance for Rapid Appraisals of Fisheries Management Systems

USAID Oceans and Fisheries Partnership (USAID Oceans)
2019
This handbook provides new and extended guidance on appraising fisheries management systems from the 1996-released Rapid Appraisal of Fisheries Management Systems Handbook. This guide presents updated concepts and methodologies for fisheries management research that acknowledge new technology advancements and the human and gender-related aspects of fisheries.Press enter to go to this resource, Assessing Fisheries in a New Era: Extended Guidance for Rapid Appraisals of Fisheries Management Systems

Vietnam CDT Gap Analysis and Partnership Appraisal

USAID Oceans and Fisheries Partnership (USAID Oceans)
2018
From Oct 2017 to Feb 2018, USAID Oceans conducted a review of Vietnam’s legal frameworks, management systems, and fisheries operations to assess current catch documentation & traceability capabilities, the current certification scheme being used in Vietnam’s seafood industry, and good practices being used by Vietnam’s tuna fisheries that can be leveraged for system implementation.Press enter to go to this resource, Vietnam CDT Gap Analysis and Partnership Appraisal
Find More Relevant Resources
bar chart icon
4- Characterize the supply chain
  • Conduct a general overview of involved fisheries, including current catch documentation, reporting, and social responsibility data collection practices across government agencies
principle applied: bar chart icon Use data to inform decision-making

Relevant Guidance

Learning Site Profile: General Santos, Philippines

USAID
This Site Profile provides an overview of why it was selected as one of USAID's pilot sites, including the site’s regional significance, biodiversity, and key economic and fisheries data. Priority challenges and opportunities are also presented in this brief overview.Press enter to go to this resource, Learning Site Profile: General Santos, Philippines

Mapping the Seafood Supply Chain

Responsible Sourcing Tool
2018
This guide highlights how supply chain mapping allows a company to trace the chain of custody - and points of accountability – at all levels of production, from harvesting or procurement of raw materials, to processing and packaging, to final sale.Press enter to go to this resource, Mapping the Seafood Supply Chain
Find More Relevant Resources
bar chart icon
5- Assess existing exposures and risks
  • Assess existing exposures and risks of IUU fishing for relevant stocks and supply chains, including enabling mechanisms to mitigate the seafood value chain risks (if any)
    • Specify risk data sources and needs
    • Identify related governing agencies or departments
  • Assess existing exposures and risks of human rights abuse for people working in or associated with relevant stocks and supply chains, including enabling mechanisms to strengthen policy for worker protections,  such as the right to freely associate and collectively bargain, and/or general social safeguards, such as protections for free speech and human rights defenders
    • Specify existing risk data sources and needs, including time spent at sea, captain’s logs, or instances of at-sea transshipment, recruitment dynamics, and risks to fishers’ families
    • Identify related civil society organizations, worker associations including trade unions, governing agencies, or departments (such as Departments of Labor or Employment) that work on human rights risk, abuse, policy, and/or data collection
principle applied: bar chart icon Use data to inform decision-making

Relevant Guidance

An Advisory Note for the UK Supply Chain on How to Avoid Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishery Products

Environmental Justice Foundation, British Retail Consortium, and WWF-UK
2017
The report outlines an approach to prevent IUU fishery products from entering UK supply chains by offering expert advice on risk assessment and risk mitigation, and encouraging action to prevent IUU fishery products entering supply chains.Press enter to go to this resource, An Advisory Note for the UK Supply Chain on How to Avoid Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishery Products
Find More Relevant Resources
3 locked circles icon
6- Gather economic data to prepare for cost-benefit analysis
  • Collect baseline data of costs involved with current fisheries management system, including food safety and regulatory compliance
  • Set expectations around a feasible return on investment, as financial returns may take time to manifest
principle applied: 3 locked circles icon Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits

Relevant Guidance

Understanding Costs for Traceability Technology Implementation

Future of Fish
This infographic highlights the phases of different costs accrued for a traceability system: scoping, installation, implementation, maintenance. It describes some of the main costs for each phase.Press enter to go to this resource, Understanding Costs for Traceability Technology Implementation

Key Data Element Collection and Return on Investment for Electronic Catch Documentation and Traceability

USAID Oceans
2020
Report on a case study regarding the collection of key data elements (KDEs) and return on investment (ROI) from research conducted with private sector partners in their using electronic catch documentation and traceability (eCDT) technologies at the USAID Oceans project learning sites.Press enter to go to this resource, Key Data Element Collection and Return on Investment for Electronic Catch Documentation and Traceability
Find More Relevant Resources
inclusive icon
7- Be inclusive in identifying stakeholders
  • Properly identify the stakeholders from governments, affected fisheries (including small-scale), technology/service providers, supply chain companies, trade unions and other worker/labor groups, whether aiming to develop an eCDT program on an international, national, or regional level that meets those stakeholders’ needs
  • Identify if the program will impact marginalized and disenfranchised stakeholders (including migrant workers and women) and take steps to build trust and include them
principle applied: inclusive icon Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders

Relevant Guidance

Identify and Describe Stakeholders

FHI 360
2012
This toolkit s a guide to engaging a wide range of key stakeholders. Based on best practices and the experience of clinical trial experts and community-based advocates, this unique resource helps teams deepen their relationships with allies, measure stakeholder engagement and address community concerns. The toolkit includes short case studies and offers concrete tools to…Press enter to go to this resource, Identify and Describe Stakeholders

Pacific Handbook for Gender Equity and Social Inclusion in Coastal Fisheries and Aquaculture

Pacific Community
2019
This handbook is designed to give practical guidance on improving gender and social inclusion in coastal fisheries and aquaculture for staff working in fisheries agencies in Pacific Island countries and territories.Press enter to go to this resource, Pacific Handbook for Gender Equity and Social Inclusion in Coastal Fisheries and Aquaculture
Find More Relevant Resources
inclusive icon
8- Communicate incentives/benefits to foster stakeholder participation
  • Identify and clarify the value proposition of eCDT to a variety of stakeholders (business, compliance, science, workers, etc.)
  • Be transparent with stakeholders about the potential benefits of the program that have been demonstrated in other programs, the intended scope, and the degree to which there is flexibility
principle applied: inclusive icon Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders

Relevant Guidance

Business Benefits of Electronic Catch Documentation and Traceability Technologies

USAID Oceans and Fisheries Partnership
2020
USAID Oceans has partnered with members of the public and private sectors across Southeast Asia to pilot a range of traceability technologies. This guide presents impact studies from each node of the seafood supply chain, exploring the various applications of eCDT technologies, benefits realized, and recommendations for further enhancements.Press enter to go to this resource, Business Benefits of Electronic Catch Documentation and Traceability Technologies

The Business Wins of Seafood Traceability Technology

Future of Fish
2014
These case studies accompany Future of Fish's 'Getting There from Here: A Guide for Companies Implementing Seafood Supply-Chain Traceability Technology'. This case study series highlights vendor-specific examples of market incentives for traceability, laying foundational evidence for the business wins of traceability technology.Press enter to go to this resource, The Business Wins of Seafood Traceability Technology
Find More Relevant Resources
inclusive icon
9- Consult stakeholders early, repeatedly, and with sensitivity to their needs
  • Identify the preferred form of communication and makeup of stakeholder groups--ensuring equitable inclusion across marginalized and disenfranchised groups--which will depend on scope, objectives, and fishery characteristics 
  • Via stakeholders’ preferred outreach method, integrate knowledge and build accountability and trust 
  • Consider power dynamics and relationships among stakeholders in the consultation process (e.g., workers and businesses, men and women, government and private sector)
  • Identify key stakeholders, such as trade unions and other fishers’ rights organizations, to support sensitive program needs, such as workers’ access to grievance and remedy
    • Civil society organizations can support workers and program implementers in upholding key human rights needs (e.g., grievance and remedy) by helping uphold workers’ rights, which often requires specialized skills and experience
principle applied: inclusive icon Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders

Relevant Guidance

Identify and Describe Stakeholders

FHI 360
2012
This toolkit s a guide to engaging a wide range of key stakeholders. Based on best practices and the experience of clinical trial experts and community-based advocates, this unique resource helps teams deepen their relationships with allies, measure stakeholder engagement and address community concerns. The toolkit includes short case studies and offers concrete tools to…Press enter to go to this resource, Identify and Describe Stakeholders

Gender Research in Fisheries and Aquaculture: A Training Handbook

USAID Oceans and Fisheries Partnership (USAID Oceans)
2018
This training guide was developed to build the capacity of practitioners, experts, and students working in fisheries and aquaculture in gender theory and practice through interactive presentations and case studies.Press enter to go to this resource, Gender Research in Fisheries and Aquaculture: A Training Handbook
Find More Relevant Resources
inclusive icon
10- In consultation with stakeholders, clearly define objectives (ecological, social, and economic) of the comprehensive eCDT program
principle applied: inclusive icon Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders

Relevant Guidance

Collaboration Mapping Tools

USAID Learn
2018
Collaboration is important in order to identify areas of shared interest and potential cooperation, avoid duplication of efforts, share knowledge, and develop new ideas to address shared development challenges. Resources on this page include a facilitation guide, an interactive Excel-based mapping tool, and a link to a webinar/presentation on the collaboration mapping approach.Press enter to go to this resource, Collaboration Mapping Tools

Best Practices for Stakeholder Engagement in Biodiversity Programming

USAID
2018
This resource guide provides a framework for effective stakeholder engagement. It presents evidence-based, practical guidance regarding key steps and practices for effectively engaging stakeholders in biodiversity conservation programs (See Table 1 on page 5). It also provides teams with key tools and resources, allowing them to choose the approaches best suited to their needs.Press enter to go to this resource, Best Practices for Stakeholder Engagement in Biodiversity Programming
Find More Relevant Resources
fish with barcode icon
1- Map data needs and constraints along full supply chain
  • Define the minimum data required to meet program objectives
    • Identify where more information is needed to define data/tech needs
  • Map key data elements (KDEs) to critical tracking events (CTEs) within affected supply chains and identify where CTEs start and end given the different jurisdictions among different players (regulators, stakeholders, regional bodies, etc.)
  • Avoid requiring duplicative information
  • Minimize exemptions from eCDT program data collection, but state clearly where they do exist (e.g., small-scale fishers, certain vessel types, instances in which data collection on workers may be used against them)
    • Where appropriate, ensure that the program is vendor neutral and that transparency mechanisms (public requests for proposals, for example) are mandatory when competing for government contracts
principle applied: fish with barcode icon Address data and verification needs across fisheries and supply chains

Relevant Guidance

Indonesia Value Chain Assessment

USAID Oceans
2017
This value chain assessment of tuna fisheries in Bitung, Indonesia, was a key first step to understand the catch documentation and traceability processes and requirements along the value chain. This report identifies the main exporting markets, explores market requirements, and informs the CDT design approach, partnership development and industry engagement in Bitung and along the…Press enter to go to this resource, Indonesia Value Chain Assessment

Comparative Study of Key Data Elements for Import Control Schemes of the Top Three Seafood Markets: EU, US, & Japan

WWF, EFJ, TNC, and Oceana
2020
A comparative study of key data elements in import control schemes aimed at tackling illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in the top three seafood markets: the European Union, the United States and Japan.Press enter to go to this resource, Comparative Study of Key Data Elements for Import Control Schemes of the Top Three Seafood Markets: EU, US, & Japan
Find More Relevant Resources
fish with barcode icon
2- Design eCDT program with verification needs and challenges in mind
  • Create a data quality assurance protocol that includes a plan for verification
    • Identify how and where data will be verified
principle applied: fish with barcode icon Address data and verification needs across fisheries and supply chains

Relevant Guidance

Document Verification Manual for Fisheries Enforcement

Stop Illegal Fishing and Trygg Mat Tracking
2019
There's been a resurgence in fraudulent abuse of flag State registries for fishing vessels. This manual focuses on vessel identity – nationality, authorization status, operational history, etc. – and related fraudulent practices. This manual primarily looks into what a vessel “says” about itself, rather than what the catch “says”. Multiple languages available: French: https://bit.ly/2Iupl2c Portuguese:…Press enter to go to this resource, Document Verification Manual for Fisheries Enforcement
Find More Relevant Resources
fish with barcode icon
3- Ensure data security and data access protocols
  • Clearly define who has access to the data and for what purpose, with special considerations to worker privacy
    • Prioritize informed consent and participant access to data
principle applied: fish with barcode icon Address data and verification needs across fisheries and supply chains

Relevant Guidance

Electronic Technologies and Data Policy for U.S. Fisheries: Key Topics, Barriers, and Opportunities

Environmental Defense Fund
2020
This white paper focuses on electronic monitoring (EM) and electronic reporting (ER) programs within the United States and presents key findings and recommendations. This paper explores current EM regulatory approaches, key data issues (storage, transmission, ownership/access, confidentiality, and sharing), and discusses the main laws governing fisheries data.Press enter to go to this resource, Electronic Technologies and Data Policy for U.S. Fisheries: Key Topics, Barriers, and Opportunities

Data Sharing Summary One: Recommendations to improve data sharing agreements for U.S. fisheries in the Pacific region

Digital Public
2020
This report is Part One of a two-part package designed to support the ongoing cultural, legal, and technical negotiations surrounding the digital transformation of fisheries. This report describes priority issues that arise in the context of data sharing and management.Press enter to go to this resource, Data Sharing Summary One: Recommendations to improve data sharing agreements for U.S. fisheries in the Pacific region
Find More Relevant Resources
globe icon
4- Identify potential pilot sites
  • Select supply chains that are well-understood and sites that have on the ground (industry and NGO) support
principle applied: globe icon Build a lasting and scalable program

Relevant Guidance

Learning Site Profile: General Santos, Philippines

USAID
This Site Profile provides an overview of why it was selected as one of USAID's pilot sites, including the site’s regional significance, biodiversity, and key economic and fisheries data. Priority challenges and opportunities are also presented in this brief overview.Press enter to go to this resource, Learning Site Profile: General Santos, Philippines
Find More Relevant Resources
3 locked circles icon
5- Design eCDT program to fit within larger fisheries management program
  • To inform alignment decisions, identify differences between the proposed eCDT program and the existing national strategy for fisheries management 
  • Consider those who may not have had any input in the design of the existing program, and how their perspectives and opinions might have changed the design 
  • Align data collection with stock assessment and/or integrate with existing fisheries management plans to ensure sustainable fishery management and promote biodiversity conservation
principle applied: 3 locked circles icon Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits

Relevant Guidance

Seafood traceability for fisheries compliance: Country-level support for catch documentation schemes

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
2017
This research focuses on illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing occurring beyond national jurisdiction, in RFMOs. The authors define the core concepts and conduct SWOT analysis of country compliance of traceability requirements of their RFMOs. This study develops concrete recommendations on how to improve fish traceability systems to sustainably manage fisheries resources.Press enter to go to this resource, Seafood traceability for fisheries compliance: Country-level support for catch documentation schemes

The Fisheries Governance Tool

MRAG Americas and the Walton Family Foundation
The Fisheries Governance Tool provides indicator-based analyses to determine the performance of countries’ fisheries management systems. This diagnostic tool can measure progress over time of fisheries management by identifying gaps in the structure and functionality as well as assessing the capacity and progress towards targets.Press enter to go to this resource, The Fisheries Governance Tool
Find More Relevant Resources
3 locked circles icon
6- Identify how worker welfare will be monitored and supported
  • Identify governing agencies that have jurisdiction over data related to worker welfare and data security issues (e.g., Departments of Labor and/or Employment and enforcement of minimum wage, immigration status, and healthcare requirements) to increase the relevance and interoperability of any social data collected by the eCDT program
  • Identify existing protocols for how to share social data with agencies that oversee worker information, and revise or create new protocols as need to improve worker welfare outcomes
principle applied: 3 locked circles icon Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits

Relevant Guidance

Remediation and Operational-Level Grievance Mechanisms

International Human Rights and Business
This report covers guidance aligned with the United National Guiding Principles on remediation and operational-level grievance mechanisms, including how to map, design, and build an effective grievance mechanism.Press enter to go to this resource, Remediation and Operational-Level Grievance Mechanisms

Roadmap For Improving Seafood Ethics (RISE)

FishWise
RISE is an open, free platform that was created to help move the seafood industry towards socially responsible practices through actionable guidance and set of tools that a wide range of stakeholders (for example - producers, processors, brands, and retailers) can use to evaluate, monitor, and improve in seafood supply chains.Press enter to go to this resource, Roadmap For Improving Seafood Ethics (RISE)
Find More Relevant Resources
3 locked circles icon
7- Implement safeguards to mitigate negative impacts of data collection to worker rights and privacy
  • Consult existing data privacy laws, and identify processes, accountability mechanisms or new schemes for responding to privacy considerations and stakeholder/user concerns as needed
  • Connect eCDT program implementers and stakeholders to other rights monitoring, advocacy, and social support organizations and systems (e.g. trade unions, migrant advocacy organizations, human rights advocates, and other civil society organizations)
  • Confirm fishers and other workers have access to confidential grievance and remedy systems
    • See definitions for ‘grievance mechanisms’ and ‘remedy’ in the Glossary for Comprehensive Principles
principle applied: 3 locked circles icon Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits

Relevant Guidance

Holistic Information Security for Human Rights Documentation

Responsible Data
2016
This is a working resource that intends to provide assistance to identify risks throughout the responsible data project life cycle.Press enter to go to this resource, Holistic Information Security for Human Rights Documentation

A Human Rights-Based Approach to Data

United Nations
2018
In step with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (2030 Agenda) and its Sustainable Developments Goals (SDGs), this note aims to provide general guidance and elements of a common understanding on a Human Rights-Based Approach to Data (HRBAD), with a focus on issues of data collection and disaggregation.Press enter to go to this resource, A Human Rights-Based Approach to Data
Find More Relevant Resources
lock box icon
8- Seek to minimize costs
  • Require only the minimum technology adoption and data collection needed to meet eCDT program objectives
  • Identify technology that adds value to businesses’ bottom line; ensure there is a built-in cost-recovery scheme
principle applied: lock box icon Create a program that is electronic, interoperable, and data secure

Relevant Guidance

Requests for Seafood Traceability Technology: A Guide

Future of Fish
2018
This Request For Proposals (RFP) guide aims to accelerate uptake of traceability technology into the global seafood supply chain by facilitating efficient and effective matchmaking between seafood companies and traceability providers.Press enter to go to this resource, Requests for Seafood Traceability Technology: A Guide

Understanding Costs for Traceability Technology Implementation

Future of Fish
This infographic highlights the phases of different costs accrued for a traceability system: scoping, installation, implementation, maintenance. It describes some of the main costs for each phase.Press enter to go to this resource, Understanding Costs for Traceability Technology Implementation
Find More Relevant Resources
lock box icon
9- Avoid creating trade barriers
  • Ensure that the program is compatible with the traceability requirements of major importers (e.g., SIMP, European Union)
principle applied: lock box icon Create a program that is electronic, interoperable, and data secure

Relevant Guidance

Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter, and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing

FAO
2016
This agreement seeks to eliminate IUU fishing through the implementation of effective port state measures as a means of ensuring the long-term conservation and sustainable use of living marine resources. The intention is that the Agreement will be applied widely and effectively by port states for vessels not entitled to fly their flags.Press enter to go to this resource, Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter, and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated Fishing

Compliance Guide for the: U.S. Seafood Import Monitoring Program

NOAA Fisheries
2017
This document provides an overview of the Seafood Import Monitoring Program (SIMP), established by NOAA Fisheries, that requires additional information to be reported when fish enter the U.S., if the fish are identified as priority species due to IUU fishing risk.Press enter to go to this resource, Compliance Guide for the: U.S. Seafood Import Monitoring Program
Find More Relevant Resources
inclusive icon
10- Clarify roles, responsibilities, and needs by stakeholder
  • Identify expertise and capacity of stakeholders and leverage existing expertise
  • Be aware that implementation roles and responsibilities for eCDT programs will vary across nations (e.g., flag, coastal, port, processing, end-market)
  • Be aware that financial or capacity support may differ between developed and developing nations
  • Define roles and capacity of both private sector and government bodies, especially within the various government agencies implementing the principles including labor, employment, and food safety (e.g., Who will cover the costs? Will the development process involve partnerships between government and industry?) 
  • Identify existing worker groups that can contribute to identifying worker roles, responsibilities, and needs (e.g., worker committees, trade unions, and other civil society organizations)
  • Outline the role of individuals or companies collecting, verifying, and submitting data
  • Identify opportunities for stakeholders–particularly civil society organizations–to provide oversight of the eCDT program and governance structures
principle applied: inclusive icon Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders

Relevant Guidance

Identify and Describe Stakeholders

FHI 360
2012
This toolkit s a guide to engaging a wide range of key stakeholders. Based on best practices and the experience of clinical trial experts and community-based advocates, this unique resource helps teams deepen their relationships with allies, measure stakeholder engagement and address community concerns. The toolkit includes short case studies and offers concrete tools to…Press enter to go to this resource, Identify and Describe Stakeholders

Collaboration Mapping Tools

USAID Learn
2018
Collaboration is important in order to identify areas of shared interest and potential cooperation, avoid duplication of efforts, share knowledge, and develop new ideas to address shared development challenges. Resources on this page include a facilitation guide, an interactive Excel-based mapping tool, and a link to a webinar/presentation on the collaboration mapping approach.Press enter to go to this resource, Collaboration Mapping Tools
Find More Relevant Resources
inclusive icon
11- As needed, formulate agreements between agencies for the sharing of information and responsibilities
  • Explicitly identify the responsibilities and authorities of each agency as it pertains to the goals of the comprehensive eCDT program
  • Determine how to best integrate processes of various involved agencies for efficacy of the program
  • Determine whether agencies require technical assistance or capacity building to construct the data management system, and if so how they can obtain that assistance
principle applied: inclusive icon Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders

Relevant Guidance

NOAA and USAID join forces to help nations combat illegal fishing practices

NOAA
2020
NOAA entered into a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to combat IUU fishing across borders and promote sustainable fisheries abroad. This is an example of an interagency agreement.Press enter to go to this resource, NOAA and USAID join forces to help nations combat illegal fishing practices

Proposal for European Data Governance

European Commission
2020
The proposal is the first of a set of measures announced in the 2020 European strategy for data. The instrument aims to foster the availability of data for use by increasing trust in data intermediaries and by strengthening data-sharing mechanisms across the EU.Press enter to go to this resource, Proposal for European Data Governance
Find More Relevant Resources
inclusive icon
12- Ensure stakeholders from relevant supply chains formally agree to support the eCDT program
  • Obtain both commitment and action (implementation, monitoring, control, and enforcement) all the way along supply chains to derive counter-IUU fishing and worker protection benefits
  • Recruit influencers to support program adoption (e.g., community leaders, association heads, industry champions, thought leaders, key local government officials) and to test the program
principle applied: inclusive icon Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders
lock box icon
13- Identify eCDT technologies to fulfill data collection and analysis needs
  • Let data collection, program objectives, and user needs drive eCDT tool selection
  • Define the architecture of the system (e.g., central repository, distributed ledger)
principle applied: lock box icon Create a program that is electronic, interoperable, and data secure

Relevant Guidance

Tools and Technologies for the Monitoring, Control and Surveillance of Unwanted Catches

James et al.
2019
This paper first provides an overall synthesis of the pro’s and con’s of several monitoring tools and technologies. Four electronic monitoring (EM) technologies already trialled in EU fisheries are then summarized.Press enter to go to this resource, Tools and Technologies for the Monitoring, Control and Surveillance of Unwanted Catches

Requests for Seafood Traceability Technology: A Guide

Future of Fish
2018
This Request For Proposals (RFP) guide aims to accelerate uptake of traceability technology into the global seafood supply chain by facilitating efficient and effective matchmaking between seafood companies and traceability providers.Press enter to go to this resource, Requests for Seafood Traceability Technology: A Guide
Find More Relevant Resources
lock box icon
14- Develop eCDT programs and technologies with “human-centered design” approaches
  • Use site-specific approaches or designs where possible, but customization should still support interoperability
  • Consult with technology users before and during implementation (see: ‘Initiate’ section)
  • Use co-creation to develop the program as it can foster buy-in and ownership among users
principle applied: lock box icon Create a program that is electronic, interoperable, and data secure

Relevant Guidance

Design Kit: Human-Centered Design

IDEO
This 'Methods' section of their Design Kit describes different ways to interact with those who will be using the technology to capture their thinking, barriers, and unique circumstances.Press enter to go to this resource, Design Kit: Human-Centered Design

Digital Principles: Design with the User

Digital Impact Alliance (DIAL)
Successful digital initiatives are rooted in an understanding of user characteristics, needs and challenges. User-centered design starts with getting to know the people you are designing for through conversation, observation and co-creation. This page highlights tips and tools to do so.Press enter to go to this resource, Digital Principles: Design with the User
Find More Relevant Resources
lock box icon
15- Prioritize interoperability with existing traceability programs and data
  • Build on existing and planned investments
  • Use standardized data formats (i.e., KDEs)
    • Consider alignment with industry data standards (e.g., GDST Version 1.0) and import data requirements of market states (e.g., U.S. SIMP)
  • Where there are national electronic traceability platforms, allow them to interface with eCDT systems, including private sector systems 
principle applied: lock box icon Create a program that is electronic, interoperable, and data secure

Relevant Guidance

Overcoming Barriers: Speaking a Common Language Through Interoperability

Seafood Alliance for Legality and Traceability (SALT)
2020
SALT has distilled lessons from existing traceability pilots to provide potential solutions to overcoming the challenges a company might face when adopting eCDT. This is the 3rd in the "Overcoming Barriers" series and outlines solutions to the challenge of interoperability and seamless data exchange across the supply chain.Press enter to go to this resource, Overcoming Barriers: Speaking a Common Language Through Interoperability

GDST 1.1 Materials

Global Dialogue on Seafood Traceability
2022
The GDST is a business-to-business platform that has created the foundation for a unified framework for interoperable seafood traceability practices. GDST 1.1 materials here include core normative standards, a spreadsheet of their basic universal list of KDEs, explanatory materials, and technical implementation guidance.Press enter to go to this resource, GDST 1.1 Materials
Find More Relevant Resources
globe icon
16- Encourage the adoption of these Principles into policy
  • Encourage policy adoption/development to strengthen eCDT support at the governmental level
  • Generate community support for the eCDT program where possible
principle applied: globe icon Build a lasting and scalable program

Relevant Guidance

Good Practice Guidelines (GPG) on National Seafood Traceability Systems

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
2018
To combat IUU fishing, Members of the FAO Committee on Fisheries created guidelines for national fishery authorities. The guidelines address the purpose and principles of flag state responsibilities, and the necessary cooperation between states. They are a valuable tool to strengthen the compliance of flag states, regarding their flagging and control of fishing vessels.Press enter to go to this resource, Good Practice Guidelines (GPG) on National Seafood Traceability Systems
Find More Relevant Resources
globe icon
17- Estimate funding needs and responsibilities to fund the program sustainably
  • Develop plan for long-term funding to support all steps of program implementation
principle applied: globe icon Build a lasting and scalable program

Relevant Guidance

Understanding Costs for Traceability Technology Implementation

Future of Fish
This infographic highlights the phases of different costs accrued for a traceability system: scoping, installation, implementation, maintenance. It describes some of the main costs for each phase.Press enter to go to this resource, Understanding Costs for Traceability Technology Implementation
Find More Relevant Resources
bar chart icon
18- Plan to adaptively manage the eCDT program
  • Build in designated time periods for monitoring and adaptation,  particularly from the entities providing oversight
  • Design the program with a forward-thinking mindset by enabling possible use of modern and emerging technology in data analytics
  • Avoid prescribing a specific technology so that the program can adapt to changes
principle applied: bar chart icon Use data to inform decision-making

Relevant Guidance

Supporting Adaptive Management

Pasanen, T. & Barnett, I.
2019
The aim of this working paper is to introduce a small set of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) tools and approaches and to highlight their usefulness. Adaptive management facilitates M&E within programmes, to enhance innovation by building pathways for adaptation, and managing unstable environments due to conflicts and opposing views.Press enter to go to this resource, Supporting Adaptive Management

Program Cycle Discussion Note: Adaptive Management

USAID
2018
Discussion Notes explores adaptive management as one of the core principles of the Program Cycle in management approaches. This note describes learnings and practices in adaptive management processes throughout the Program Cycle, providing an approach to making decisions and adjustments in response to new information and changes in context.Press enter to go to this resource, Program Cycle Discussion Note: Adaptive Management
Find More Relevant Resources
globe icon
1- Pilot test the eCDT program
  • Formalize partnership with the users and supporters who will be the first implementers
  • Deploy technology
  • Implement mechanism to receive and integrate feedback from the first implementers
principle applied: globe icon Build a lasting and scalable program

Relevant Guidance

Thai Union eCDT and Crew Communications Pilot: Assessment Report

USAID Oceans
2018
This report assesses Thai Union’s 2017 pilot program to test the usability and scalability of catch documentation and traceability (CDT) technology for at-sea data collection and improved crew communications.Press enter to go to this resource, Thai Union eCDT and Crew Communications Pilot: Assessment Report

Abalobi: case study by UNESCO-Pearson Initiative for Literacy

UNESCO
2018
This case study involves Abalobi, a suite of mobile apps co-designed by South African stakeholders to be an information management system for small-scale fisheries, as part of a series highlighting how inclusive digital solutions can help people with low skills or low literacy levels use technology in ways that support skills development and improve livelihoods.Press enter to go to this resource, Abalobi: case study by UNESCO-Pearson Initiative for Literacy
Find More Relevant Resources
inclusive icon
2- Provide user assistance, technical support, and capacity building as needed
  • Provide training to stakeholders across the supply chain
    • Training and support could be to encourage uptake of the program, promote maintenance, or build capacity for the analysis and interpretation of data collected
  • Use culturally effective methods and ensure instructions are available in useful formats
  • Conduct stakeholder consultation to gather feedback
principle applied: inclusive icon Be inclusive and collaborative with stakeholders

Relevant Guidance

Thai Union eCDT and Crew Communications Pilot: Assessment Report

USAID Oceans
2018
This report assesses Thai Union’s 2017 pilot program to test the usability and scalability of catch documentation and traceability (CDT) technology for at-sea data collection and improved crew communications.Press enter to go to this resource, Thai Union eCDT and Crew Communications Pilot: Assessment Report

Final Program Report: Impacts and Lessons Learned

USAID Oceans and Fisheries Partnership (USAID Oceans)
2020
USAID Oceans focused on strengthening electronic catch documentation and traceability, curbing IUU practices, developing partnerships, and integrating human welfare considerations throughout supply chains. Numerous lessons were uncovered about challenges, best practices, essential stakeholders, and key issues in Southeast Asia’s seafood industry. This report shares lessons and recommendations for a legal, fair, and sustainable seafood industry.Press enter to go to this resource, Final Program Report: Impacts and Lessons Learned
Find More Relevant Resources
3 locked circles icon
3- Monitor and evaluate the efficacy of the eCDT program by analyzing data to determine if objectives (ecological, social, and economic) are being met
principle applied: 3 locked circles icon Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits

Relevant Guidance

Calculating Return on Investment

Future of Fish
This suite of tools helps seafood companies estimate and thus better plan for traceability implementation, and then evaluate and monitor their ROI from traceability implementation.Press enter to go to this resource, Calculating Return on Investment

Assessing the Value and Role of Seafood Traceability from an Entire Value-Chain Perspective

Institute of Food Technologists, Value Chain Management Intl. Inc, Alexander Miller Consulting, Oregon State University
2015
This article provides insight and knowledge about the impact of traceability on improving seafood industry business performance, including reducing waste, and enhancing consumer trust.Press enter to go to this resource, Assessing the Value and Role of Seafood Traceability from an Entire Value-Chain Perspective
Find More Relevant Resources
3 locked circles icon
4- Document costs of eCDT program implementation and project costs of long-term operation
  • Conduct cost–benefit analysis and/or a return-on-investment (ROI) study using the collected baseline economic data 
  • Consider conducting an economic impact study for government initiatives to advocate for sustained funding from state budgets 
  • Identify other business drivers (e.g., facilitation, trade preference)
  • Consider documenting and publicly reporting environmental, social, and ecological benefits
principle applied: 3 locked circles icon Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits

Relevant Guidance

Traceability ROI

Future of Fish
This presentation evaluates the costs and benefits of implementing a traceability system.Press enter to go to this resource, Traceability ROI

Requests for Seafood Traceability Technology: A Guide

Future of Fish
2018
This Request For Proposals (RFP) guide aims to accelerate uptake of traceability technology into the global seafood supply chain by facilitating efficient and effective matchmaking between seafood companies and traceability providers.Press enter to go to this resource, Requests for Seafood Traceability Technology: A Guide
Find More Relevant Resources
3 locked circles icon
5- Assess the benefits, limitations, and challenges of the program in relation to equity and worker welfare
  • Analyze worker participation in the creation and implementation of the eCDT program
  • Track and resolve concerns raised from workers regarding the program’s efficacy and privacy
  • Evaluate the alignment and complementarity (as well as any gaps) in the roles of eCDT implementers and governmental agencies that monitor labor
  • Continue to strengthen the dialogue between fisheries operators and labor monitoring agencies to confirm that the data gathered is used for implementation and/or enforcement of human rights laws and other social benefits
  • Monitor, evaluate, and adapt as needed
principle applied: 3 locked circles icon Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits

Relevant Guidance

Assessing Government and Business Responses to the Thai Seafood Crisis

The Freedom Fund & Humanity United
2017
With dramatically increased scrutiny on the Thai fishing industry in recent years, the Thai government and private sector have launched wide-ranging initiatives in an attempt to reform historically unregulated practices and prevent the exploitation of the industry’s workforce.Press enter to go to this resource, Assessing Government and Business Responses to the Thai Seafood Crisis

An Assessment of Ethical Issues Impacting on the UK seafood supply chain: Literature Review

Seafish
2015
This report presents the findings of Seafish's study to assess the ethical issues impacting on seafood species landed into and imported to the UK. The aim is to provide a comprehensive description of ethical concerns pervading seafood production and processing activities in a wide range of countries or regions that supply the UK seafood market.Press enter to go to this resource, An Assessment of Ethical Issues Impacting on the UK seafood supply chain: Literature Review
Find More Relevant Resources
3 locked circles icon
6- Evaluate whether data is accessed timely and analyzed usefully for fisheries management
  • Ensure necessary agencies have clear data flows for assessing efficacy of the fisheries management strategy
principle applied: 3 locked circles icon Maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits

Relevant Guidance

The Fisheries Governance Tool

MRAG Americas and the Walton Family Foundation
The Fisheries Governance Tool provides indicator-based analyses to determine the performance of countries’ fisheries management systems. This diagnostic tool can measure progress over time of fisheries management by identifying gaps in the structure and functionality as well as assessing the capacity and progress towards targets.Press enter to go to this resource, The Fisheries Governance Tool
Find More Relevant Resources
bar chart icon
7- Utilize monitoring and evaluation tools to assess eCDT program performance and identify opportunities for adaptive management
  • Adapt and scale technology based on user feedback
principle applied: bar chart icon Use data to inform decision-making

Relevant Guidance

Digital Investment Tool

USAID
2019
The Digital Investment Tool is designed to ensure that staff considers best practices, based on the Principles for Digital Development, when developing digital systems. Section 8 specifically has information for scaling a digital system.Press enter to go to this resource, Digital Investment Tool

Monitoring and Evaluation Framework: Improving food security & reducing poverty through intra-regional fish trade

World Fish
2017
This framework provides a description of practical information the Fish Trade project requires for operationalizing and implementing a functioning monitoring and evaluation (M&E) framework, enabling results for decision making. This case study demonstrates the use M&E framework to set indicators, guidelines, and facilitate coordination across stakeholder groups.Press enter to go to this resource, Monitoring and Evaluation Framework: Improving food security & reducing poverty through intra-regional fish trade
Find More Relevant Resources
globe icon
8- Outline scope and objective for scaling
principle applied: globe icon Build a lasting and scalable program

Relevant Guidance

Nine Steps for Developing a Scaling-up Strategy

World Health Organization, ExpandNet
2010
Scaling-up increases the impact of successful innovations, improving the operation and reach of programs, and should be conducted via a systematic approach to expand upon previously successful pilot projects. The nine steps are guidelines which can be adapted to each situation and use data collected from monitoring and evaluation to further decision making and scaling-up.Press enter to go to this resource, Nine Steps for Developing a Scaling-up Strategy

Scaling Up: From Vision to Large-Scale Change

Management Systems International
2016
This document provides effective strategies and pathways to help the process of scaling-up, assessing the pros and cons of varying methods and focuses on it’s design and implementation in projects. Using well devised scaling-up methods, the productivity and vision of traceability projects can be enhanced, strengthening organizations by aligning goals and sharing resources.Press enter to go to this resource, Scaling Up: From Vision to Large-Scale Change
Find More Relevant Resources
globe icon
9- Identify differences between the pilot and other areas for implementation
  • Determine how objectives of the scaled program overlap and differ from that of the pilot
  • Assess resources for scaling: are the funds, staff, infrastructure, political will, and resource commitments still present and appropriate for the scope?
principle applied: globe icon Build a lasting and scalable program

Relevant Guidance

Digital Investment Tool

USAID
2019
The Digital Investment Tool is designed to ensure that staff considers best practices, based on the Principles for Digital Development, when developing digital systems. Section 8 specifically has information for scaling a digital system.Press enter to go to this resource, Digital Investment Tool

Scaling Up: From Vision to Large-Scale Change

Management Systems International
2016
This document provides effective strategies and pathways to help the process of scaling-up, assessing the pros and cons of varying methods and focuses on it’s design and implementation in projects. Using well devised scaling-up methods, the productivity and vision of traceability projects can be enhanced, strengthening organizations by aligning goals and sharing resources.Press enter to go to this resource, Scaling Up: From Vision to Large-Scale Change
Find More Relevant Resources
globe icon
10- Return to the ‘Initiate’ section when necessary
principle applied: globe icon Build a lasting and scalable program
see all of the Pathway steps
quote bubble icon.
Interested in Applying the Principles or Have a Question?
document icon.
Suggest a Traceability Resource

Join the conversation with #TraceabilityPrinciples

@SALTTRACE
RECEIVE UPDATES FROM SALT SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER

Footer Logo
  • What is Salt?
  • Principles
  • Seascape Map
  • Story Hub
  • Supply Chain
  • Dive Deeper
  • Linkedin
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Spotify
  • Youtube
  • Contact Us
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy

© 2023 SALT

This product is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of FishWise and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.