UK seeks leadership position on marine protection

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The British government is considering proposals to considerably tighten protection of its seas as demands increase from offshore renewables, commercial fishing and coastal tourism. It could provide an example to the rest of the world.

As a small island nation, the UK has many competing uses for its busy seas, including fishing, tourism and a booming offshore wind industry. Yet so far, despite 25% of its seas being designated marine protected areas (MPAs), the UK’s marine environment remains degraded, even by the government’s own assessment. 

In June the government of the UK announced plans to increase protection by creating a series of highly protected marine areas (HPMAs). These would protect all the species and habitats within their boundaries, with all fishing and extraction industries banned, and other activities such as scientific research and wildlife tourism subject to special permits.

This would enable marine ecosystems to recover fully, providing a scientific benchmark that would allow the government to understand environmental recovery rates and better manage the areas outside the HPMAs.

The proposals were drawn up by a panel commissioned by the government and comprising experts in marine ecology and conservation, and representatives from the offshore-wind and fishing industries. 

Source: https://www.woi.economist.com/uk-seeks-leadership-position-on-marine-protection/

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