Bottom trawling is a fishing method used to catch fish and other seafood.

Sir David Attenborough's latest natural history film, Ocean, has shone a light on the horrendous impact bottom trawling has in the sea, but also the potential for marine life to recover if this is stopped.

This hugely destructive process drags heavy chains across the seabed, bulldozing fragile marine habitats, releasing carbon from the seabed and indiscriminately capturing and killing marine life in its path. This fishing method is often used to catch just one or two species of fish. So many other sea creature are caught up in this practice. Over three quarters of what is caught is thrown away. 

It's not obvious what's happening, but out of sight can't mean out of mind anymore.

We know that properly protected MPAs allow nature to recover and store more carbon but they can also support sustainable fisheries in the long term. We need to work together to ensure a just transition to a healthy ocean and better future for all.

Marine Protected Areas are supposed to protect marine areas from damaging activities, but incredibly, destructive fishing is STILL being allowed in many of these sites. The oceans Minister, Emma Hardy, can make this stop - you can help her today!

Sir David has thrust this story onto the world stage. Together we can save the sea from this unnecessary, destructive activity. 

“If we save the sea, we save our world. After a lifetime of filming our planet, I’m sure that nothing is more important.” Sir David Attenborough

You can help today.

Let the Minister know it's time for a ban of bottom trawling in Marine Protected Areas where the seabed should be protected .  

We’ve made it easy to write the details so you can focus on adding your own words - we know this helps make a really big impact. For example, have you seen Sir David Attenborough's 'Ocean'? How did it make you feel? Let the Minister know today.

Click ‘View your email’ when you're ready, to check it before sending.