UKDIVING
Diving is considered a non-damaging activity
Well managed and protected MPAs can act as a nature-based solution for ocean recovery , which is crucial in light of the current climate crisis and global pandemic . The Benyon Review drew on the successful NTZ at Lamlash Bay on the south-eastern coast of the Isle of Arran in the Firth of Clyde . This successful MPA demonstrates the power of local community campaign efforts to protect the treasures on their shores . Research from the University of York studying the site has documented a 50 % increase in biodiversity . Unlike many other MPAs , the NTZ at Lamlash Bay protects the wider environment rather than individual features , which underpins a ‘ whole-site approach ’ to protection , as recommended by the Benyon Review .
Getting it right
HPMAs could allow for areas to restore to a point where we can understand what a thriving seabed and marine environment truly means for the UK . They could set a baseline understanding from which other MPAs can be measured . In turn , this will help us to document what happens to our marine environments when damaging activities are removed entirely and help to determine appropriate management for the rest of the MPA network .
This is where our collective role as divers in the MPAs process is important . We are able to document the marine environment , providing valuable data regarding the species and habitat present at a site , and the damage and recovery first-hand . A group of divers that have been working hard to provide such data is Seasearch . The Seasearch project aims to map out the marine habitats and the species that live in them throughout the British Isles . The data collected by Seasearch volunteers has supported the designation and continued management of MPAs throughout the UK . The project is an excellent way for BSAC Sports Divers and above to develop their knowledge of the marine environment and to directly impact the future protection of the sites they know and love .
More than 500,000 records of undersea species and habitats have been collected by volunteer Seasearch divers .
As scuba diving is considered a nondamaging activity , consider planning your next dive at your nearest MPA when we finally emerge from Lockdown . Diving a Marine Protected Area not only provides a chance to explore thriving marine environments , but supports the local livelihoods that benefit from the site through tourism .
While we need no excuse to kit-up , you don ’ t have to head underwater to make a difference . Get involved in campaigns and consultations ; perhaps contact your local MP to ask what they are doing to ensure the recovery of our oceans . We all need to collectively make Highly Marine Protected Areas throughout UK waters happen now . �
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