Environment

The marine environment around the UK is important to all of us in many different ways. Most of our freight imports and exports are carried by the sea. Fishermen depend on thriving fish stocks for a living. Numerous diverse species of animal and plant life can be found in the marine environment. Many of the UK population live near the coast or flock to the seaside in the summertime. Our marine environment is an invaluable asset. Although historical issues such as sewage pollution have been addressed, new threats to the marine environment, such as climate change, have appeared and coastal erosion, flood risk and habitat loss are all increasing concerns. Litter on beaches is unsightly and can kill marine animals that become entangled in it or mistake it for food. Local authorities spend on average £8,000 a year per kilometre of beach that has to be cleaned. You can do your bit for the beach environment in the following ways:

• Leave no trace (if you carry it in, carry it out)
• Use public restrooms (help keep the beach water clean)
• Don’t tread the dunes (prevent beach erosion)
• Know your limits (swim, surf and boat safely)
• Respect native habitats (wildlife and plants)
• Mind your pet (help keep beaches sanitary)

For more information about how to follow the 'Countryside Code' click here