Overfishing a problem area
December 13, 2008
Fishing needs to be banned in almost a third of the country’s sea areas to help fish stocks recover from several decades of harm, campaigners have stated. The Co-operative Group adds 30% of UK waters should be ‘no-take’ reserves by the year 2020 to reverse the effects of overfishing. It points out that only eight out of around 47 fishing stocks are in a healthy condition, warning once-common species are now facing extinction.
The campaign is supported by the Marine Conservation Society. MCS has called for strong measures as part of the government’s Marine Bill. Its spokesman Paul Monaghan stated:
“The need for an extensive network of marine reserves around the country is an uncomfortable truth.”
He added:
“There are 22 species such as the common skate and Atlantic halibut in UK waters that are listed as critically endangered. Most worryingly, the rate of biodiversity loss is fast accelerating. This highlights the need for quick, decisive science-led action.”
Once-common species that are facing extinction also include the angel shark, sturgeon as well as leatherback turtle.
MCS biodiversity policy officer Dr Jean-luc Solandt said:
Other News:“Marine reserves are a cost-effective way of achieving benefits for wildlife and the fish species, which rely on habitats. It makes social, ecological and economic sense.”
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