Abstract
Part A: A review of unlicensed activities and whether there are any that are likely to pose a significant risk to marine biodiversity was undertaken. The aim of the unlicensed review was to identify is there were any activities currently unlicensed which posed a threat to the conservation status of marine biodiversity (ie threats to the viability of a population and not individual animal welfare threats). . Three activities were considered to pose the greatest threat – bait digging; motorised water based recreation (which includes jet boats, motor boats) and unlicensed fishing activities. Recommendations were provided on how best to manage these activities. Part B: This research aimed to provide the evidence base in a concise but scientifically defendable manner on whether there are still marine species which are unprotected and whose conservation is at risk and to consider whether legislative species protection would be beneficial, or if adequate protection is possible via alternative approaches (e.g. voluntary, sectoral, area-based etc). Using case-studies, a review of literature, identification of species/group sensitivities and discussions with key stakeholders, an assessment has been made to identify if there are any marine species which may warrant protection and what would be the best mechanism. The scope of the project was not to review all species, but to utilise a niche/group assessment (encompassing worked examples) to identify any particular groups of species which may need to be considered further to ensure they are protected.
United Kingdom