Demand More Marine Reserves
There is a growing body of scientific evidence that demonstrates that the establishment of large-scale networks of Marine Reserves could be key to reversing global fisheries decline.
Large-scale Marine Reserves are areas that are closed to all extractive uses, such as fishing and mining, as well as disposal activities. Within these areas there may be core zones where no human activities are allowed, for instance areas that act as scientific reference areas or areas where there are particularly sensitive habitats or species.
Marine Reserves are not just about overfishing - even if one of the primary reasons for creating them is to preserve fish stocks. They are increasingly seen as an essential global tool to protect the marine environment, including from pollution - caused particularly by the disposal of wastes, and the uncertain effects of climate change. In order to be robust and protect ocean ecosystems Marine Reserves need to be large.
Greenpeace has been campaigning for Marine Reserves for years. Globally we are campaigning for a network of reserves covering 40 per cent of the world's oceans.
We currently have two political opportunities to make marine reserves happen - the EU Marine StrategyDirective (MSD) and the UK Marine Bill. Environment Minister David Miliband is the UK minister responsible for both of these.
Please write to David Miliband and ask him to ensure that marine reserves are established in the North Sea and throughout Europe as a matter of urgency.