BSAC

Divers were instrumental in establishing the Marine Conservation Society in the early 80s. Over the last 25 years, MCS has continued to engage divers all around the UK in its campaigns for clean seas and beaches, sustainable fisheries and marine wildlife protection. 

 

There is no doubt that our seas are fit for diving in terms of the amazing diversity and beauty of the marine life, we as divers have the privilege of seeing firsthand. But, sadly activities such as fishing and pollution from litter are making our seas unfit for wildlife.

 

One of the key opportunities to redress decades of neglect is the Marine Bill, which will:

·         Improve protection for marine life

·         Introduce a system for marine planning and development to avoid conflict

·         Establish a network of Highly Protected Marine Reserves

 

Highly Protected Marine Reserves are vital to protect marine life from ALL damaging activities.   Current ‘marine protected areas’ such as the 65 marine Special Areas of Conservation and 3 national Marine Nature Reserves, still allow fishing within their boundaries.  There is only ONE No Take Zone (an area 3.3km2 off Lundy Island = 0.002% of UK coastal waters) where all damaging activities are prohibited.

 

MCS launched a joint Marine Reserves Now campaign with BSAC at the London Dive Show in March 2007.  The Marine Reserves Now posters have been seen above and below the water all around the UK and over 65,000 votes have been registered through petitions at events and online (www.marinereservesnow.org).

 

We need 100,000 votes by March 2008 to deliver to Government and express the wide public support for marine reserves, including support from sea users such as divers who stand to benefit from the increased biodiversity within highly protected marine reserves.

 

As Marcus said earlier this year, “We see first hand how the environment is changing and how protection really can make a difference.  I hope every diver, especially BSAC divers, will get behind this campaign.”

Marcus Allen, BSAC Chairman, Spring 2007

 

How can YOU help ensure our seas are fit for diving and fit for wildlife?

 

·         Marine Reserves Now! Campaign needs your votes – 100,000 by March 2008 (visit www.marinereservesnow.org). 

·         Join the Divers March on Westminster: e-mail info@mcsuk.org to register.

·         Join in with Beachwatch and Underwater clean ups on September 20th & 21st 2008 (visit www.adoptabeach.org.uk).

·         Take part in the Seasearch project co-ordinated nationally by MCS, and receive training on how to survey marine habitats and species and help identify those areas in need of protection (www.seasearch.org.uk).

·        Join MCS – working on your behalf to keep our seas fit for diving and for wildlife. www.mcsuk.org