Cleaner, Healthier Oceans

Our oceans cover over 70% of our planet. They provide more than half the oxygen we breathe and absorb nearly a third of our carbon emissions. But today, they are in poor health because of human activity.  

Supported by our players, the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is determined to change this by working with communities, businesses and governments.

From cleaning beaches to shaping sustainable policies, MCS works towards cleaner, better-protected, healthier oceans.

Recovering Habitats

For a cleaner ocean, MCS finds ways to prevent and clean up marine litter and pollution. It campaigns to stop plastic entering our oceans, from straws and wipes to microplastics. It also organises volunteer beach cleans to stop plastic waste going back into the water and endangering sea life. Using science, MCS tracks the health of our waters and calls for better environmental regulations.  

For a better-protected ocean, MCS secures spaces where species and habitats can recover. MCS is aiming for at least 30% of UK waters being effectively managed to protect wildlife and ecosystems. Only a sea full of life can absorb carbon and tackle climate change. 

For a healthier ocean, MCS promotes sustainable fishing and aquaculture to minimise harm caused by harvesting and farming resources. It also supports businesses to catch and source seafood sustainably and incorporate conservation into their work. The Good Fish Guide lets consumers know which fish are the most and least sustainable, so they can make better seafood-buying choices. 

To make this happen, MCS:

• advocates policy and legislative change through influencing politicians. They also challenge those responsible when laws are not enforced,
• engages communities to get involved in their campaigns and call for action to protect our seas,
• educates and influences people and businesses to understand the value of a healthy ocean and change their behaviour, and
• carries out practical conservation activities with volunteers and partners to collect and share scientific evidence, using this data to better understand our seas and inform its work.

For more than 30 years, MCS has been the voice of the sea, defending our coastal habitats and species. This is vital not only to protect wildlife but to support communities and jobs. 

Its work has resulted in the creation of marine protected areas around the UK, carrier bag charges to reduce litter, and supermarkets being more aware of the need to stock sustainable seafood.

MCS sees a future of seas full of life, where nature flourishes and people thrive.

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