An influential group of UK MPs, the environmental audit committee, is urging ministers to ban destructive fishing practices like bottom trawling and scallop dredging, as well as mining, in the country's nearly 180 marine protected areas. Despite their designation, these areas currently allow such activities, which devastate the seabed and marine life. The call follows intensified public outcry, partly fueled by Sir David Attenborough's recent film 'Ocean.'
UK MPs call for ban on bottom trawling in protected marine areas
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️An influential group of UK MPs, the environmental audit committee, is urging ministers to ban destructive fishing practices like bottom trawling and scallop dredging, as well as mining, in the country's nearly 180 marine protected areas. Despite their designation, these areas currently allow such activities, which devastate the seabed and marine life. The call follows intensified public outcry, partly fueled by Sir David Attenborough's recent film 'Ocean.'
Trending- 1 Sir David Attenborough's film 'Ocean' released last month (May 2025).
- 2 UK MPs' environmental audit committee made the call.
- 3 UK to send representatives to a UN oceans conference later this month (June 2025).
- Potential for stronger marine protections
- Continued pressure on the government to act
- Increased public awareness of destructive fishing practices
What: UK MPs from the environmental audit committee are calling for a ban on bottom trawling, scallop dredging, and mining in marine protected areas (MPAs) due to their destructive impact on the seabed and marine life.
When: Recent call; Sir David Attenborough's film released last month (May 2025); UK representatives to attend UN oceans conference later this month (June 2025).
Where: UK, specifically its marine protected areas (900,000 sq km).
Why: Current practices like bottom trawling devastate marine habitats and have high bycatch rates, making the 'protected' designation misleading. Public outcry and scientific evidence highlight the urgent need for stronger protections.
How: The environmental audit committee issued a call; campaigners and charities have been advocating for years; Sir David Attenborough's film raised public awareness.