Habitats: Protecting Marine Life in English Waters

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) and Defra are leading a consultation that will run for 12 weeks until September 1st. The proposed measures aim to increase the protection of English seabed from bottom-towed fishing gear, adding to the existing 18,000 km2 already safeguarded.

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are designated ocean areas that are crucial for preserving habitats and species essential for healthy marine ecosystems. These areas allow vulnerable, rare, and important marine life to recover from the damaging impacts of human activities.

While bottom trawling and other destructive fishing practices are currently allowed in UK waters, conservationists have been advocating for a complete ban in all marine protected areas to ensure the sustainability of marine life.

Currently, there are 181 MPAs, including three highly protected marine areas (HPMAs), covering 93,000km² or 40% of English waters. The proposed measures aim to protect a variety of marine habitats such as subtidal sandbanks, gravels, and muds, supporting key species like lobster, clams, soft corals, and langoustines.

Destructive Fishing Practices

The ban on bottom trawling in these areas could significantly contribute to the conservation of valuable and rare marine life, allowing seabeds to recover from the damage caused by destructive fishing practices. This initiative could lead to healthier marine ecosystems, increased biodiversity, and the preservation of vulnerable underwater species.

The proposed management measures include a ban on bottom-towed fishing in 41 MPAs and the prohibition of fishing using traps in specified areas. According to Mr. Reed, these actions are necessary to protect marine wildlife and habitats from irreparable harm caused by bottom trawling.

Ratification of International Treaties

At the upcoming summit in Nice, countries will be under scrutiny to see which nations ratify the UN High Seas Treaty, a pact aimed at establishing protected areas in international waters. While the treaty was agreed upon by 193 countries two years ago, it requires ratification by 60 countries to come into force, with only half meeting this requirement.

The UK Government, criticized by environmentalists for not ratifying the treaty, has stated that discussions with the Foreign Office are ongoing to secure a legislative slot in Parliament’s timetable for ratification. Nature minister Mary Creagh expressed confidence in the eventual ratification of the treaty.

About the Author

Helen William is a reporter with PA, while Rebecca Speare-Cole covers sustainability for PA. This article has been edited by The Ecologist online.