Preserving Our Habitats | Sustainability

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Sustainability

Preserving our habitats

In the United Kingdom’s coastal areas, several designated regions of protected sea beds have been established; Seagrass and Maerl, which are among the most rapidly diminishing habitats on earth, are crucial parts of our ecosystem. These sea beds serve as a vital home for numerous species, as well as significant breeding and nursery grounds for fish. They also contribute to carbon storage and the reduction of coastal erosion.

Investing in an advanced mooring system can also significantly contribute to preserving sea beds. Traditional swing moorings can cause severe abrasion to the seabed, whereas innovative and pragmatic systems like AMS can help reduce the impact on fragile beds. More information about AMS and its benefits can be accessed here.

Finally, we can act as the first line of defence against invasive species; it is our duty to regularly inspect our boats, equipment, and gear to ensure that they are free of any invasive plants and animals that could harm fragile habitats. By doing so, we can minimise the risk of introducing invasive species into new environments and protect our ecosystems for future generations.

Underwater scene with an anchor, seagrass, fish, a seahorse, and a shell on the seabed.

As responsible individuals, we must be conscious of our anchorage locations and take care to stay informed about the protected Seagrass and Maerl beds throughout the UK. By utilising maps and planning our excursions respectfully, we can do our part to minimise the impact of our actions on these habitats.

Being aware of the wildlife that calls our waters home is also critical to their conservation. We must always maintain a distance of 300 ft from cliffs, beaches, and any wildlife when we encounter them, never exceed the speed limit and reduce our wash, especially when near banks and shorelines. Additionally, keeping a clean propeller, lowering our voices, and avoiding passing directly through groups of animals and birds are all simple steps that can reduce our impact on their underwater habitats.

Preserving water habitats is a fundamental duty of the boating community, and it requires our constant attention and a proactive approach. Let us pledge to do our part to safeguard our ecosystems and ensure their survival for many years to come.

Click below to find out more about preventing water pollution

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Haven Knox-Johnston Specialist is a trading name of Howden UK Brokers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 307663. Registered in England and Wales under company registration number 02831010. Registered Office: One Creechurch Place, London, EC3A 5AF. Calls may be monitored and recorded for quality assurance purposes.