National Marine Week is celebrated annually in the UK. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of the marine world whilst also learning about the vital importance of our seas.
Organised by The Wildlife Trusts, National Marine Week actually spans two weeks. This year’s theme is ‘Sea’ the Connection. It runs from July 27 to August 11. It is deliberately timed to coincide with the school summer holidays to encourage individuals and families to explore the rich diversity of marine life and to help raise awareness about marine conservation.
The ecological importance of marine life
The UK’s marine environment is incredibly diverse, hosting an array of ecosystems ranging from rocky shores and sandy beaches to deep-sea habitats. These ecosystems contribute to:
• Nutrient cycling – the breaking down of organic material and recycling nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.
• Carbon sequestration – absorbing about 25% of the CO2 emitted by human activities.
• Oxygen production – marine phytoplankton are responsible for producing roughly 50% of the Earth’s oxygen.
They also support a wide variety of species, including marine plants, plankton, countless invertebrates, fish, seals, dolphins, whales, and seabirds. These species, whether they are predators, prey, or decomposers, each play an important role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
This biodiversity is crucial for the stability and resilience of marine ecosystems. The removal or decline of one species can have cascading effects throughout the marine environment.
Challenges facing our seas
Despite the beauty and importance of marine ecosystems, they are under threat from human activities. Plastic pollution is one of the most visible issues, with millions of tonnes of plastic waste entering the oceans each year. This pollution harms marine life, damages habitats, and can even enter the human food chain.
Overfishing is another critical problem, leading to the depletion of key species and the disruption of the marine food chain. Additionally, climate change is causing ocean temperatures to rise and increasing acidification, both of which have profound impacts on marine biodiversity.
Marine conservation
In the UK efforts to protect marine life include the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and sustainable fishing practices. The UK employs quota systems, gear restrictions, and seasonal closures to prevent overfishing and promote stock recovery. However, despite this UK fish stocks are still in a deeply troubling state.
Other efforts include pollution control measures, and public awareness campaigns. These initiatives aim to safeguard marine biodiversity and ensure the health of marine ecosystems.
Get involved in National Marine Week
Events and activities
There are a range of events during National Marine Week that you can get involved in. These include guided rock pooling sessions, organised beach cleans, educational talks, snorkelling adventures, and boat trips to name just a few. The Wildlife Trusts and other participating organisations provide resources and expertise, making these events accessible and informative for all ages.
Use the interactive Wildlife Trusts map to find an event near you.
Contribute to science
One of the highlights of National Marine Week is the chance to participate in public science projects. These projects encourage individuals to contribute to real scientific research by recording sightings of marine animals, monitoring beach litter, and helping with habitat restoration efforts.
Take action
Everyone can play a part in protecting marine environments, and not just during National Marine Week, although it is the perfect time to start.
Simple actions such as reducing plastic use, supporting sustainable seafood choices, and participating in local beach cleans can make a significant difference. Additionally, staying informed about marine issues and supporting policies that promote ocean conservation are crucial steps towards ensuring the health of UK seas.
Written by © Anne Baker
Photo Credit: © Anne Baker, kindly reproduced here with permissions for the 2024 GPW committee