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Over 188,000 students in London are being served sustainable fish after 14 universities signed up to the Sustainable Fish City pledge.

The fourteen London universities and colleges that have signed up to the Sustainable Fish City pledge are: Birkbeck; City University London; University of East London (UEL); Goldsmiths; University of Greenwich; Imperial College; Institute of Education; Kingston University London; Queen Mary, University of London.

Others include Royal College of Music; Royal Veterinary College; School of Pharmacy; School of Oriental and African Studies; University College London (UCL). Several have already achieved Marine Stewardship Council chain of custody certification, an eco label recognised as the gold standard in sustainable seafood.

The scheme promises to exclude endangered fish and to serve and promote sustainable fish.

Tim Lang, professor of food policy at the centre for food policy, City University London, said: "It is inspiring to hear that so many of London's universities are helping to secure a sustainable fish future."

"Educational institutions recognise their role in helping the younger gener¬ation to tackle the serious challenges that now face human beings living on a planet with finite resources. What better way to demonstrate to our policy-makers of the future that sustainable fish is delicious, achievable and affordable than to serve it in university canteens, and promote this to staff and students."

Jon Walker, coordinator of the Sustainable Fish City campaign, which is backed by leading marine conservation organisations, added: "There are nearly 50 universities, colleges and major educational institutions in London."

 "It would be fantastic if all of them pledged to serve sustainable fish. So we would like all food buyers in educational institutions to join us, through their fish buying policies, in supporting precious marine environments and good livelihoods in sustainable fishing."