The JNCC plays a key role in providing advice for marine nature
conservation and the management of the information that underpins
this advisory role.
Human uses of the seas are widespread. As a consequence general
measures and guidelines are often more useful than an approach that
is based on protecting individual sites. These more widespread
measures form the basis of much of the marine advisory work of
JNCC, which can be divided into three main areas:
- Fisheries.
- Offshore industry
- Species
This site provides some background to current fisheries around the UK,
their effects on the marine environment and aspects of fisheries
management. There are also copies of the joint views of the UK
statutory nature conservation agencies on fishing management,
practice and policy.
We also provide advice on many aspects of the offshore
industries, including oil and gas, renewable energy and offshore
marine aggregates. JNCC provides an advisory
service in case of oil spills or other major pollution
incidents in UK waters.
Seismic
surveys are carried out in the United Kingdom Continental Shelf
(UKCS) during the search for, and management of, oil and gas
reserves. Surveys do not necessarily pose a threat to marine
mammals, but JNCC is consulted on whether consent should be granted
for each individual survey.
We also provide advice on the conservation of marine species
listed under legislation. They include cetaceans (whales, dolphins
and porpoises), seabirds, fish and turtles. We also provide advice
to help meet legal requirements to control and prevent non-native
species, especially those that threaten native or protected
species.
Non-native species are a concern because they may displace
native organisms by preying on them or by out-competing them for
resources like food and space. Once an invasive species has
established itself in the marine environment it is likely to be
impossible to remove.