Evidence Base Briefing on HPMAs
Summary: There is a very strong global evidence base showing that Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) have a positive impact ecologically and can support the fishing industry. HPMAs, also known as marine reserves or no take zones, act as nurseries and refuges and as such benefit marine species and habitats both within the protected area […]
Highly Protected Marine Areas – FAQs
What are “Highly Protected Marine Areas” (HPMAs)? Highly Protected Marine Areas are areas of the sea that are placed under strict protection to support ecosystem recovery and protect against climate change. The Scottish Government has committed to giving a small proportion – just 10% – of our seas this strict protection. This is in line […]
Sewage and chemical pollution top list of public concerns over Scottish seas
People in Scotland believe sewage and chemical pollution pose the biggest threat to the health of our seas, according to new research. The opinion poll, conducted by Survation on behalf of the environmental coalition Scottish Environment LINK, also found high levels of public concern over litter and the impact of climate change on our seas. […]
Fisheries: Remote Electronic Monitoring (REM) with cameras would be a win-win-win for wildlife, fishers and the consumer
Guest blog by WWF Scotland Policy Advisor, Mario Ray The UK’s fishing industry has long been a fundamental part of vibrant coastal communities, providing livelihoods to many and food to feed us, from Cullen Skink on a cold winter’s evening, to whole grilled mackerel with lemon and garlic, or scampi and chips by the sea. […]
Scots support strong protection for their seas
Current levels of wildlife protection in Scotland’s seas are too weak, according to an opinion poll gauging the views of Scots on the health of the marine environment. Only around half of respondents felt that Scotland’s seas are in good condition, with 46% stating that the quality of Scotland’s seas have worsened in the last […]
World Ocean Day: protecting at least 30% Scotland’s seas for ecosystem recovery
Meeting commitments to protect at least 30% of Scottish seas for ecosystem recovery by 2030 Evidence is growing to show that the health of Scotland’s seas has been in decline for some time. Seabed habitats are a shadow of what they once were, fish stocks have dwindled, and coastlines are changing due to the […]