Cornwall Council Protects 10 Marine Species

Cornwall Council has identified ten marine species that are considered "most in need" of protection in the region's waters. This initiative is part of a broader effort to create a comprehensive list of marine plants, animals, and habitats requiring conservation and recovery. The species highlighted include seals, seagrass, maerl, kelp reef, native oysters, whales and dolphins, mussels, sharks and rays, tuna and cod, and seaworms. Councillor Martyn Alvey, who oversees environment and climate change, emphasized that this list represents a "crucial step" in developing an evidence-based plan aimed at protecting and restoring local marine ecosystems. The initiative is part of the council's Marine Nature Recovery Framework, which is expected to be finalized next year. This framework aligns with the council's goal of ensuring that 30% of land, rivers, and seas are well-managed by 2030 to address climate change challenges. The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Marine and Coastal Partnership is supporting this initiative, which aims to take an integrated approach to conservation along Cornwall's coastal boundaries. Each of the identified species plays a vital role in the marine ecosystem; for instance, kelp provides essential food and shelter for various marine organisms, while seagrasses are recognized as one of the world's most valuable ecosystems for their ability to purify water and sequester carbon dioxide. This proactive measure reflects Cornwall Council's commitment to safeguarding marine biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices in the face of environmental challenges.