Discover a range of marine conservation projects across the UK inviting public participation, from beach clean-ups to biodiversity monitoring, aimed at preserving and understanding marine ecosystems. Activities cater to all ages, from the Big Seaweed Search to free Seasearch training for divers and snorkelers. Dive into the world of marine life conservation and coastal restoration with various initiatives and educational programmes. Don’t miss upcoming events like the Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival and explore the rich marine biodiversity of the UK.
Marine Conservation Activities in the UK for All Ages
A variety of marine conservation projects and initiatives in the UK invite public participation to help preserve and understand marine ecosystems.
Participants can engage in the Big Seaweed Search, a year-long project to monitor seaweed biodiversity along UK coastlines by submitting observations online. For those interested in tackling beach pollution, the Great Nurdle Hunt and the Big Microplastic Survey offer opportunities for volunteers to collect and record plastic particles and pollution data. The Marine Conservation Society also provides a database to find local beach clean-ups.
For divers and snorkelers, Seasearch provides free training to identify and record underwater marine life, contributing to national biodiversity tracking efforts. In Loch Craignish, Seawilding Scotland welcomes volunteers to help plant and survey seagrass meadows, crucial for carbon sequestration and biodiversity.
Restoration of native oyster reefs is being undertaken by the Wild Oyster Project across England, Scotland, and Wales, with activities open to schools and families. The Rockpool Project invites keen rock poolers to survey marine life at over 70 coastal sites in the UK.
Educational efforts include Surfers Against Sewage’s Ocean School, which provides resources for young nature enthusiasts to engage with marine environments. Various citizen science projects allow participants to monitor seabirds, seals, cuttlefish, seahorses, and turtles through different wildlife trusts.
In Plymouth, the forthcoming national marine park, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, aims to connect people with nature and restore coastal habitats. For surfing and marine biodiversity enthusiasts, Devon’s first surfing reserve offers a dual-purpose experience. Jersey’s protected waters and guided snorkel trails by the Blue Marine Foundation provide another immersive way to explore marine life.
The Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival, happening from June 22 to 29, features guided beach walks, wildlife surveys, and other activities celebrating coastal ecosystems. Observing the UK’s largest grey seal colonies in Norfolk during pupping season, or spotting bottlenose dolphins in Cardigan Bay, Wales, are other notable wildlife experiences.
Photographs: Aled Llywelyn, Seawildling Scotland, David A Eastley/Alamy, Joe Giddens/PA.
