Britain’s marine environment – described by conservationists as “our life support system” – is on its knees, in desperate need of some tender loving care, according to a new report.
Thou shalt have a fishy on a little dishy... or shalt thou? Fish and chips, one of Britain's most popular dishes, could become a thing of the past if we continue to plunder our seas, warn conservationists. MSN meets marine expert Lisa Chilton to discuss the damage being done beneath the waves.
More on marine conservation from MSN Environment
Our seas are home to more than 44,000 different kinds of plant and animal, from tiny corals to the massive basking shark, the world’s second largest fish.
Conservation experts from around the UK have compiled a list of 15 marine areas urgently in need of protection, each considered vital for the preservation of at least one species of marine animal or plant.
The Wildlife Trusts have conducted a far-reaching survey on public attitudes to our seas, providing a revealing picture of our relationship with the sea and the many life forms that dwell beneath its surface.
A great white shark was reportedly seen “hunting” off the Cornish coast in 2007, plunging the population into Jaws mania. But he's not alone...
A day at the beach was Britain's most popular choice of leisure activity, according to a recent poll. Share your seaside memories.
A geographical look at global warming hotspots across the earth, with Windows Live Maps.More on our marine environment from across the web
Save Our Seas: sign Bernard the Gurnard's petition!
Our seas are home to an extraordinary range of wildlife, from dolphins and sharks to colourful corals, but this fragile environment has been damaged by decades of use and abuse. Show your support for a Marine Bill by signing this petition.
The Wildlife Trusts: official website
There are 47 local Wildlife Trusts across the whole of the UK, the Isle of Man & Alderney - working for an environment rich in wildlife for everyone. With 726,000 members, they are the largest UK voluntary organisation dedicated to conserving the full range of the UK's habitats and species.
Marine Conservation Society: official website
Find out more about our seas, shores and wildlife with the Marine Conservation Society, a UK charity dedicated to their protection. MCS campaigns for clean seas and beaches, sustainable fisheries, and protection for all marine life.
More on the environment from MSN
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- Global warming myths debunked
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- Head-to-head: the Heathrow climate protest
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Vote now!
Save Our Seas: vote now
- Less than 0.001% of Britain's marine environment, home to 44,000 species, is legally protected. Should the government be doing more to safeguard our seas?
- Absolutely! The UK's seas are rich in biodiversity and should be protected from damaging human activities.
91% - I'm not sure. Is there really enough scientific evidence to support conservationists' calls for tougher laws?
4% - No way. Any further restrictions on fishing would do far too much damage to an already struggling industry.
5%
- Absolutely! The UK's seas are rich in biodiversity and should be protected from damaging human activities.
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