Almost 40% of Scotland's seas are now covered by Marine Protected Areas [View all]

[Judi Lynn]

Friday, December 4th 2020 - 09:28 UTC

New sites have been designated as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to give extra security to some of Scotland's most vulnerable species and habitats. Minke whale, basking sharks and Risso's dolphins will be among a range of animals to be safeguarded.

The areas include north-east Lewis, Sea of the Hebrides, Shiant East Bank and Southern Trench.

The designation aims to protect habitats from marine industry projects and some types of fishing. Shiant East Bank is a stretch of water between the Outer Hebrides and the mainland, while the Southern Trench stretches from Buckie to Peterhead off the Aberdeenshire coast.

A further 12 sites have been given Special Protection Area status (SPA), giving additional protection to Scotland's vulnerable marine birds including sea ducks, divers and grebes.

More:
https://en.mercopress.com/2020/12/04/almost-40-of-scotland-s-seas-are-now-covered-by-marine-protected-areas