Share, Suggest, Support
Main Issues:
1. Simplification of Marine Regulations:
-The simplification of marine regulations in the UK, without proper safeguards and monitoring, can lead to increased habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. Without sufficient oversight, activities such as coastal development, dredging, and fishing practices may intensify, negatively impacting sensitive marine ecosystems and the species that rely on them.
2. Brexit and Fisheries Policy:
- Address the shortcomings of the post-Brexit Fisheries Act in delivering sustainable fisheries management.
- Advocate for adherence to scientific advice when setting catch limits instead of allowing higher quotas.
3. Addressing the Overfishing Crisis:
- Acknowledge the critical state of UK fish populations with 6 out of 10 overfished species.
- Learn from the success of the EU fisheries regulatory framework in reducing overfishing rates.
4. Bottom Trawling
- A fishing practice that involves dragging heavy nets along the seafloor, is causing significant damage to marine life in MPA's (Marine Protected Areas) and beyond. The indiscriminate nature of bottom trawling results in the destruction of sensitive habitats such as coral reefs, seamounts, and seagrass beds, which serve as essential nurseries and feeding grounds for numerous marine species.
Laws and Regulations
Policies to Implement to Protect Marine Life
1. Sustainable Fisheries Management:
- Enforce fishing quotas to prevent overfishing and promote sustainable fishing practices.
- Establish clear implications and penalties for unjustified adjustments to fishing quotas.
2. Regulating Fishing Gear:
- Implement fishing gear regulations to minimize bycatch and unintentional capture of non-target species.
- Encourage the adoption of more selective fishing gear to reduce juvenile fish and non-target species mortality.
3. Job Creation and Beach Clean-up:
- Create employment opportunities with higher-than-minimum pay for beach and public area clean-up.
- Incentivize individuals to participate in cleaning efforts and maintain pristine coastlines actively.
4. Sustainable Tourism Practices:
- Promote sustainable water sports activities in the tourism industry, minimizing negative impacts on marine ecosystems.
- Encourage businesses to adopt environmentally friendly practices and engage in responsible tourism.
5. Prohibition of Waste in the Ocean:
- Advocate for clear statutory regulations to reduce waste and pollution in the ocean.
- Promote responsible waste management practices and educate the public on reducing marine pollution.
6. Teaming up with Charity Organizations:
- Collaborate with prominent charity organizations like the Marine Conservation Society.
- Support their efforts in raising awareness and advocating for environmental issues, such as addressing two decades of sewage spills in a Marine Protected Area.
- Utilize the influence and impact of these organizations to drive positive change and bring attention to critical issues facing marine ecosystems.
