Hopeful signs in European seas

Posted on 16 October 2020

Efforts to restore oyster reefs in the waters around the Netherlands, which had been severely impacted by overfishing, disease and severe weather, have seen successful results.

Two years after 3D-printed reef structures and a starting population of oysters were introduced by WWF and partners, a new generation of oysters and other species have settled around these reefs – and we are asking for this kind of nature restoration work to be scaled up. Also, our calls for 30% of Scottish waters to be protected have been successful after the creation of Europe’s largest marine protected area. The deep waters are home to a rich variety of life, including sharks and coral gardens, and are spawning grounds for commercially important species. We continue to call for better management of marine protected areas globally to help safeguard and restore important habitats for the benefit of people and wildlife.