Greenpeace activists have dropped nine large boulders in a Marine Protected Area (MPA) off the coast of Norfolk in the North Sea, aiming to create a barrier against bottom-trawling fishing vessels. The action is intended to protect marine life from the damaging effects of this fishing practice.
Bottom trawling involves dragging heavy nets across the seabed, which can devastate marine ecosystems and deplete fish stocks. Greenpeace argues that the MPA was designated to protect species like the harbour porpoise, which can be affected by both reduced food availability and the noise pollution generated by trawling. The group claims this noise disrupts the porpoises' ability to hunt.
A spokesperson for the UK's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) stated that strict legislation is in place to protect the marine environment while supporting sustainable fishing. "All Marine Protected Areas are safeguarded by legislation, with damaging fishing activities banned in more than 100 sites," the spokesperson said, adding that further restrictions are being considered. They also emphasized that "Activities at sea should be carried out lawfully and with due regard for the safety of other sea users."
In a similar incident in 2022, Greenpeace activists dropped 18 boulders off the coast of Cornwall. At that time, the Marine Management Organisation (MMO), England's marine regulator, expressed disappointment, stating they did not believe the action was justified or would help protect the marine environment.
