fair-fish

Billo Heinzpeter Studer has been a devotee of fishes for over 20 years: 'Fishes have always fascinated me, while I also feel sympathy for them. Because they are rather neglected, and mainly attract our attention in large groups - but fishes are not vegetables!'

Fishes are stranger to us than other (working) animals, and we have very limited knowledge about them and their needs. What defines a good life for a fish? Most of us have no idea. Billo Heinzpeter Studer is on a mission to change this. He explains why fishes are close to his heart, describing his aim to protect them as well as the practical projects, strategies and solutions to realize his vision.

One such a project leads to Senegal. He goes fishing with local fishermen to observe what happens at sea. He discusses a more humane and sustainable method of fishery for the fishes. The fishermen not least would reap the reward, by asking fairer prices for fairly caught and paid for fishes. This could safeguard their long-term livelihoods. 'C'est intéressant, ça,' they tell Billo Heinzpeter Studer who is on board with the fishermen and on their side.

Billo Heinzpeter Studer studied social psychology and journalism in Zurich. He was director of KAGfreiland (1985-2001), the non-profit animal welfare association campaigning for a good life for working animals. In 2000, he founded the fair-fish association. He was director of its Swiss centre of expertise until his retirement in 2012. He has since lived in Italy - by the sea, of course - and focuses on the development of the fair-fish international association as well as its research into the behaviour and welfare of fishes.