The English-Channel-Marine-Conservation-Zone is an initiative aimed at protecting marine biodiversity and ecosystems within the English Channel. This zone encompasses various areas along the coastlines of England and France, where conservation efforts are focused to preserve the marine environment, promote sustainable use of resources, and enhance the resilience of marine species and habitats to environmental changes.
The concept of marine conservation zones in the English Channel began gaining traction in the early 2000s as part of broader environmental protection initiatives in the European Union. The Marine Conservation Zone Network was established under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 in the UK, which aimed to create a coherent network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). This act was a significant step towards implementing the obligations set by the EU's Marine Strategy Framework Directive, which seeks to achieve Good Environmental Status of EU marine waters by 2020.
Management of the English-Channel-Marine-Conservation-Zone involves multiple stakeholders including government agencies, local authorities, conservation groups, and the fishing industry. Key challenges include:
Some notable marine conservation zones within the English Channel include: