Home / Environment / Greenpeace Blocks Trawlers in UK Marine Park
Greenpeace Blocks Trawlers in UK Marine Park
2 Nov
Summary
- Greenpeace activists dropped boulders to stop industrial fishing.
- The action protects the Southern North Sea marine protected area.
- The area is vital for nearly 20% of the UK's porpoise population.
Greenpeace activists have taken direct action in the North Sea by dropping boulders to form a barrier against industrial fishing vessels. The operation, conducted from the Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise, targets the Southern North Sea marine protected area (MPA), the UK's most heavily bottom-trawled MPA. This area is crucial for harbour porpoises, hosting nearly 20% of the UK North Sea population. Despite its designation, fishing restrictions are minimal, allowing bottom trawlers to operate extensively.
Activists stated that over 37,200 fishing hours were logged in the protected zone in 2025 alone. The "boulder barrier" has closed approximately 116 sq km of the MPA to bottom trawling, with the Arctic Sunrise patrolling to deter further industrial fishing. This initiative is positioned as an "ocean park" in solidarity with Britain's national parks. The action occurred concurrently with the premiere of "Blue Planet III", highlighting marine threats. Several figures, including MP Kerry McCarthy, have supported the action, advocating for a ban on bottom trawling and more robust ocean sanctuaries.
