Marine Act campaign: for living seas
Help WWF call for a stronger UK Marine and Coastal Access Bill
In this small island nation, we’re never more than 115km (70 miles) from the coast. Our seas are an essential part of our country’s history, and its ecosystem.
The UK has a remarkable 20,000km of coastline, and our waters are home to an astonishingly diverse range of marine species and habitats – many of which are in severe decline and urgent need of protection.
Watch this short film, which asks a simple question: Who's looking after the sea...?
Click for photo captions and credits
Surprisingly, in the UK we've never had much in the way of coherent legal protection for our sea life and coastal environment, to help guard against the increasing pressures placed on them by modern life. At least, not until now...
After 10 years of calling for new legislation, WWF is very pleased that at last the UK government has introduced a Marine and Coastal Access Bill into parliament. This is a significant advance – but we do not believe this bill is strong enough in its current form.
We'll be working closely with MPs and peers to ensure the bill can deliver the much-needed protection for our seas, and for the people and wildlife that depend on them.
WWF’s big four demands for the new marine bill
The UK Marine and Coastal Access Bill is being debated in the House of Commons from May 2009, and due to become law later in the year. Find out about our four big concerns with the Bill.
How you can help
Latest news
- EU targets dysfunctional fisheries
- 40% of global fishing catch is wasted
- Campaign to safeguard UK seas continues
Downloads
UK Marine Bill - WWF’s Top 10 Priorities
Quote
A strong Marine and Coastal Access Bill is urgently needed to safeguard our abundant sealife and ensure our coast will be enjoyed for years to come.
Miranda Krestovnikoff, zoologist and presenter of BBC TV's Coast