Marine Conservation Society

Introduction

The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is the UK charity dedicated to caring for our seas shores and wildlife. MCS campaigns for clean seas and beaches, sustainable fisheries and protection for all marine life and habitats, and the sensitive use of our marine resources for future generations...

MCS Logo

Through education, community involvement and collaboration, MCS raises awareness of the many threats that face our seas and promotes individual, industry and government action to protect the marine environment.

MCS provides information and guidance on many aspects of marine conservation and produces the annual Good Beach Guide, the Good Fish Guide and www.fishonline.org on sustainable seafood, as well as promoting public participation in volunteer projects and surveys such as Beachwatch, Adopt-a-Beach and Basking Shark Watch.

Founded following Underwater Conservation Year in 1977, MCS has worked successfully to highlight issues of concern and threats to marine wildlife and the wider marine environment, bringing them to the attention of the public, media, politicians and Government agencies alike.

MCS involves thousands of volunteers in surveys and other projects, has a network of local supporters' groups, and works with other bodies of like-mind to achieve common goals.

The MCS 'Seas Fit for Life Strategy 2006-09' sets out MCS goals, aspirations and programme of work towards our vision of diverse, clean and productive seas for wildlife and future generations.

To achieve this vision MCS is calling for:

·         Protection for marine wildlife

·         Clean seas and beaches

·         Sustainable fisheries

·         Ecologically sustainable management

·         Clean and sustainable energy

·         Knowledge and understanding

MCS believes that one of the key drivers for change is to inform and involve as wide an audience and range of stakeholders as possible, and thus influence decision making as well as the actions and attitudes of individuals.  Throughout the strategy our projects and campaigns focus on celebrating the diversity of marine life and supporting public engagement in surveys and positive action, as well as influencing and advising policy changes for better protection and management of our seas. 

MCS President, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales supported the strategy in a Foreword saying: "I am delighted to welcome the publication of the Seas Fit for Life Strategy. It sets out the agenda for the Society during a time when our seas need urgent help, and when key opportunities, such as the Marine Bill, are under development.  I wish them every possible success in their vital work to create cleaner, more productive and more diverse seas that benefit both our remarkable marine wildlife and the people of this island nation.  Our special bond with our coastline and the sea, developed and nurtured over many generations, deserves nothing less."

It sets out the agenda for the Society during a time when our seas need urgent help, and when key opportunities, such as the Marine Bill, are under development.  I wish them every possible success in their vital work to create cleaner, more productive and more diverse seas that benefit both our remarkable marine wildlife and the people of this island nation.  Our special bond with our coastline and the sea, developed and nurtured over many generations, deserves nothing less.". It sets out the agenda for the Society during a time when our seas need urgent help, and when key opportunities, such as the Marine Bill, are under development.  I wish them every possible success in their vital work to create cleaner, more productive and more diverse seas that benefit both our remarkable marine wildlife and the people of this island nation.  Our special bond with our coastline and the sea, developed and nurtured over many generations, deserves nothing less."

MCS is a registered charity (No 1004005) and a company limited by guarantee.