What new sites are going to be created?

Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs) are an exciting new approach which will protect places that are of national importance for their marine wildlife, habitats and geology. They will be selected to protect a range of marine wildlife, including those considered rare and threatened. Within these sites it will also be possible to create highly protected areas where no
potentially damaging activity can occur. MCZs (a type of Marine Protected Area), introduced through the Marine and Coastal Access Act, will be established through a process which allows all sea users and conservationists to get involved in deciding which places should be protected. During this process The Wildlife Trusts will act as marine champions,
ensuring the network is established with the needs of wildlife at the forefront.

How will our MPA network be established?

Four regional projects have been created within the North Sea, Eastern Channel, South West of England and the Irish Sea to select MCZs so as to create an effective MPA network. The deadline for recommending the MCZ sites is 2011. The Wildlife Trusts will work alongside these projects, ensuring they deliver protection for wildlife and help achieve our vision
of Living Seas. As a voluntary organisation, we can openly voice our concerns and respond rapidly to changing situations.

Help us to push for a successful MPA network and join us on our journey towards Living Seas

Get outside and explore the marine environment, tell others about it, visit www.wildlifetrusts.org. Send us underwater photographs and stories about the sea, visit a coastal nature reserve, take part in an event or volunteer and help us
gather information highlighting marine environments in need of protection. Click here for more information on how you can get invovled.