Greenpeace UK takes action again! Recently, the organization dropped several tons of giant boulders into the sea off the coast of the UK to create a barrier that prevents trawlers from fishing in marine protected areas.
Goal: To stop bottom trawling that destroys seabeds and marine ecosystems
Reason: These areas should be genuinely protected—not just in name
UK authorities: Criticized the move, saying it may pose a risk to navigation
In September 2022, Greenpeace UK dropped 18 large limestone boulders, each weighing between 500 and 1,400 kilograms, into the South West Deeps (East) marine protected area, located around 190 kilometers off the coast of Cornwall. This area is one of the most heavily fished marine protected areas in the UK. In the 18 months prior to the action, it saw over 19,000 hours of fishing, with 3,376 hours specifically involving trawling.
Greenpeace aims to halt trawling, a destructive fishing method that damages the seabed and ecosystems. The presence of these boulders will make trawling in the area risky, as it could damage fishing equipment. However, Greenpeace has shared the coordinates of the boulders with relevant authorities to ensure navigational safety.
According to a report by the Marine Conservation Society, 98% of marine protected areas in the UK are still subjected to destructive fishing practices such as trawling. This method not only destroys the seabed and marine habitats but also releases carbon stored in sea sediments into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.
Source : https://www.greenpeace.org.uk https://www.standard.co.uk
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