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MARINE ACT: A PLEA FOR ACTION, SAYS RSPB CYMRULast modified: 10 November 2009
The passing of the UK Marine and Coastal Access Act this week provides the tools to safeguard Wales’ marine wildlife such as corals and seabirds, and manage our seas effectively. While welcoming the Act, RSPB Cymru is calling on the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) to ensure it is implemented swiftly and effectively in Wales. Under the Act, Welsh Ministers are gaining new powers and responsibilities, including the creation of marine conservation zones and the preparation of marine plans. These new powers give WAG the opportunity to safeguard Wales’ marine wildlife and ensure we do not push the marine environment to its limits. The new system should also provide better regulation and clarity for sea users. Annie Smith, Sustainable Development Manager with RSPB Cymru, said: “The passing of this Act is a watershed for marine conservation. It is crucial the Welsh Assembly puts its new powers into effect quickly to help safeguard vulnerable marine species, and to secure the vital contribution the marine environment makes to our economy and wellbeing.” The Marine and Coastal Access Act will be the culmination of a decade of campaigning by the RSPB and other members of Wales Environment Link, especially WWF the Wildlife Trusts and the Marine Conservation Society.
What can I do?If you feel passionately that we need to make decisions today that will safeguard nature into the future, then please sign the Letter to the Future and together we can make the world a richer place. |
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Curlew feeding in grassy field - Steve Round
Red admiral on Michaelmas daisy - Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com)
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)