Marine Advice

Human uses of the seas are widespread, and as a consequence, general measures and guidelines are often more useful than an approach based on protecting individual sites. It is these more widespread measures that form the basis of much of the marine advisory work of JNCC. This work may be divided into three main areas: fisheries; offshore industry; and species.

 

This site provides some background to current fisheries around the UK, their effects on the marine environment and aspects of fisheries management. There is also information on fisheries at present, and sets out the joint views of the UK statutory nature conservation agencies on fishing management, practice, policy and conservation.

 

We also advise on many aspects of the offshore industry. You can find details of the contact arrangements in case of oil spills or other major pollution incidents in UK waters. Seismic surveys are carried out in the United Kingdom Continental Shelf (UKCS) in the search for, and managing of, oil and gas reserves. These do not necessarily constitute a threat to marine mammals, but the JNCC are consulted on whether consent should be granted for each individual seismic survey.

 

Concerning marine species, the UK is bound by international agreements that aim to protect biodiversity and endangered species and habitats, and include provisions requiring measures to prevent the introduction of, or control of, non-native species, especially those that threaten native or protected species. We have compiled information on these non-native species; the site also outlines our responsibilities and obligations. Non-native varieties may displace native organisms by preying on them or out-competing them for resources such as for food, space or both. When an invasive species has established itself in the marine environment, it is likely to be impossible to get rid of it.