The world's oceans cover over two-thirds of our planet's surface and support a rich web of life. Without them, life on earth would not be possible.

They produce and regulate most of the world’s oxygen, water and water supply cycles; drive and moderate the world’s climate and weather; provide a substantial amount of the world’s nutrient cycling; and support most of the world’s biological diversity as well as feeding a couple billion humans – just to name a few of their important and life-sustaining functions.

Oceans currently absorb around 50% of all CO2 emissions. Rising water acidity is affecting the growth of phytoplankton which will lead to less CO2 being absorbed. Also, as the oceans warm more of the carbon stored on the sea bed in colder areas will be released.

But less than 1% of our oceans are protected.

On the Isle of Man

In Oct 2008 the Dept of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry started a 3-year project to select and establish the Isle of Man’s first Marine Nature Reserve (MNR).

An MNR is a type of Marine Protected Area, an area of the sea protected from some damaging activities and impacts. The Island has had legislation for Marine Nature Reserves since 1990 but none have yet been designated.

The MNR would aim to protect some of the Island's eelgrass beds, horse mussel reefs, breeding areas for basking sharks, our diverse rocky reefs, shallow sand banks, sea caves, feeding grounds for Risso’s dolphins, and maerl beds.

Experience from establishing Marine Protected Areas elsewhere has shown the importance of involving users of the sea and the local community in the process of designating a Marine Protected Area - not least because the seas are heard to police, and we need to the support of fishermen to do it adequately.

To read a detailed presentation on creating a Marine Nature Reserve for the Isle of Man - please click here

Beach cleaning is a very straightforward practical way in which everyone can help make the Isle of Man a nicer place to live and to visit. Beach cleans are run safely by volunteers throughout the year.

For more info about why we clean the beaches - click here


In the north of the Island beach cleans are organised by Steve Wright. Why not give him a call on 01624 678 788 or e-mail him at wildlife@manx.net for more info.

In the south of the Island beach cleans are organised by Ian Costain. Why not give him a call on 01624 837 059 or e-mail him at iancostain@manx.net for more info.