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Hebridean
Partnership is moving to; www.marineconcern.com
Please note: Hebridean Partnership has moved to www.marineconcern.com This site contains useful archive material but will expire during the next host renewal. In Order to Keep
Scotland's Coast Special We Need To Protect Some Areas For Our FutureScotland'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.
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