Industry Level Biodiversity Action Plan

Summary of work completed

In 2014 MarineSpace produced Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) for the UK Marine Aggregate dredging regions as part of the Marine Aggregate industry’s drive towards improved operating practices. A total of five BAPs were produced, one for the each of the regions within the UK where aggregate dredging occurs most frequently (Humber, Anglian, Thames, East Channel and South Coast regions). The BAPs will allow marine biodiversity to be suitably considered in terms of marine aggregate dredging and will assist BMAPA members improve the biodiversity management of marine aggregate extraction sites around the UK.

The BAPs draw all known interactions between marine aggregate extraction sites with designated nature conservation areas, species and habitats into a simple to use, web based format. The BAPs detail all high and medium priority species and habitats and the level of interaction that they may have with aggregate dredging sites within the region, allowing BMAPA members to easily identify potential biodiversity concerns within aggregate dredging regions. The BAPs also present the annual targets of the Marine Aggregate industry to reduce their impacts on the marine environment.

The project includes presentation, maintenance and improvement of the BAPs on an annual basis to allow the BAPs to be developed and updated. The targets of the Marine Aggregate industry will also be assessed at this time, and may be extended or updated.

The work completed to date has given MarineSpace staff a sound knowledge of BAP species and habitats around the UK and an understanding of the considerations required for different regions. Staff have also gained a knowledge of designated nature conservation areas within the regions