In Order to Keep Scotland's Coast Special We Need To Protect Some Areas For Our Future  

Scotland's West Coast has some of the most dramatic scenery in the world. Rugged rocky shores and golden sandy beaches contrast with deep sheltered sea lochs surrounded by spectacular mountains. Relatively warm ocean currents gives the area a mild, moist climate for its latitude. Upwelling currents provide nutrients for the food chain. The convergence of the North Atlantic Drift and Boreal (cold, northern) Currents combined with these varied habitats support an extremely diverse range of marine and maritime life. 

In the past, our seas have been able to absorb some of the pollutants that we have discharged into them, but with a rising population and industrial-scale commercial activities our seas cannot cope. Some of our marine life is dwindling, our climate is changing but we can make a difference. We have a responsibility to protect our natural environment and resources, which includes our food stocks.

The marine ecosystem is complex and we still do not fully understand the implications of some of our activities. This is why we need to keep some areas safe, both for our own future and for future generations. Marine Protected Areas utilising No Take Zones can afford the type of protection needed. We need to respect our seas and understand the requirements of others, not exploit without regard to nature or neighbour.

• To protect the habitats, fauna and flora within the proposed area.
• To promote and encourage environmentally friendly, sustainable use of the seas and land within the proposed area.
• To promote educational programmes for schools, communities and commercial sectors.
  
  The proposed area includes, Oban as the gateway, Mull, The Small Isles, Coll & Tiree and North Jura. All of the sea lochs are included.  In order to provide for future generations many more areas need to be included all around Scotland & the UK.