According to a recent article from the Guardian, the delicate balance of our marine ecosystems is under threat, and recent findings from Oceana UK shed light on a concerning reality: bottom trawling, a destructive fishing method, is wreaking havoc on our offshore protected areas. According to their analysis, ten vessels, mainly from the EU, are responsible for a staggering quarter of this activity in these crucial marine habitats.
Bottom trawling, a practice involving dragging heavy nets and metal gear along the seafloor, has devastating consequences for marine biodiversity. Not only does it capture a high proportion of non-target species, but it also disrupts fragile ecosystems, causing long-term damage to marine habitats.
Among the most-trawled sites identified by the analysis are two critical areas off the coast of Cornwall. The Western Channel marine reserve, located off the Lizard peninsula, is a sanctuary for diverse marine life, including angler fish and small-spotted catsharks, thriving amidst underwater dunes. However, this haven is now threatened by the destructive force of bottom trawling.
Similarly, the South West Deeps (East), situated 150 miles off Land’s End, is another hotspot for bottom trawling activity. This site is home to cuckoo rays, supports populations of seals and whales, and ranks among the top five offshore marine protected areas for carbon storage capacity, as highlighted by the Marine Conservation Society.
The significance of carbon storage in marine ecosystems cannot be overstated. The South West Deeps site alone has the potential to sequester 1.7 million tonnes of carbon, equivalent to one million return flights from London to Sydney. However, the destructive nature of bottom trawling poses a threat to this vital carbon sink, as it can release harmful carbon back into the atmosphere, exacerbating the effects of climate change.
These findings underscore the urgent need for action to protect our offshore marine habitats. As responsible stewards of our oceans, we must advocate for sustainable fishing practices and robust conservation measures to safeguard these invaluable ecosystems for future generations. Through collective efforts and informed decision-making, we can ensure the preservation of our marine biodiversity and the resilience of our oceans in the face of mounting environmental challenges.
Please leave your comments below to tell us what your thoughts are and whether you think this is having a devastating affect on your angling experiences.