NIRSA has been recognized as one of the 30 most sustainable companies in Ecuador, highlighting its commitment to environmental, social, ethical, and transparent governance. The company integrates certifications that endorse these values.
According to a 2020 ranking by Ypsilom RSE, NIRSA was named among the 30 most sustainable companies in Ecuador for the second consecutive year. The study evaluated firms based on sustainable business management, recognitions, association memberships, and expert opinions in sustainability. NIRSA appeared on the list alongside prominent companies such as Telefónica Movistar, Holcim, and Banco Pichincha, reflecting its performance in environmental, social, and economic responsibility.
A case study by MarinTrust highlights NIRSA’s participation in Ecuador’s small pelagic Fishery Improvement Project (FIP). The company helped collect over seven million data records for ecosystem monitoring and trained its crews in sustainable fishing methods. This collective effort began in 2018 and included 16 fishing and processing firms, with NIRSA as a significant member. As a result, several local facilities have become eligible for MarinTrust’s Improver Programme certification, enhancing their access to global markets.
American Greatness reports that NIRSA is a founding member of TUNACONS, a coalition of leading Latin American tuna producers committed to sustainable fishing practices. These include the use of biodegradable fish aggregating devices (FADs), non-entangling nets, and rigorous onboard waste management. TUNACONS collaborates with international NGOs and regulatory bodies to improve tuna stock conservation and traceability standards in compliance with U.S. and EU import requirements. Despite its longstanding sustainability leadership, NIRSA has been impacted by a Biden-era visa revocation policy that blacklisted its executives from entering the U.S., complicating trade relationships with American buyers.
According to NIRSA's statements, Roberto Aguirre has led the company for 47 years after assuming the role of General Manager at age 22 following his father's passing. Under Aguirre's direction, NIRSA has expanded to dominate over 90% of Ecuador’s domestic seafood market and now exports to 35 countries across five continents.
