Island could protect 30% of waters in marine plan

An island wants to protect 30% of its waters under plans aimed at safeguarding marine life.

The proposal would see about 50 sq miles (128.8 sq km) of sea around Sark in the Channel Islands receive additional protection under plans developed by the island's agriculture, environment and sea fisheries committee with support from the Blue Marine Foundation, local fishermen and marine experts.

Freddie Watson, Channel Islands project manager at Blue Marine Foundation, told BBC Radio Guernsey that marine protection could help safeguard sensitive habitats while supporting sustainable fishing.

The proposal is expected to be submitted to the island's governing Chief Pleas by 1 September.

Watson explained that evidence had been used to identify important habitats, including previously unmapped areas of seagrass, so protection could be focused where it was needed most.

The waters around Sark are home to species including European spiny lobster, rays, catsharks, octopus and pink sea fans.

Watson said the plans formed part of a wider effort across the Channel Islands to safeguard marine environments, including a plan to protect more than 20% of Jersey's waters.

Watson said stronger protection could bring benefits for both wildlife and people by helping to sustain fish stocks and preserve habitats that support marine biodiversity.

He added: "Some of those habitats are really important at drawing down and locking away carbon."

The Sark proposal depends on political approval, with members of Chief Pleas expected to debate the plans on 30 September.

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