Rewilding the Sussex Seabed with SKRP
A pioneering marine rewilding project has launched to restore almost 200 square kilometres of lost kelp forest along the coast of Sussex.
This follows the implementation of the Sussex Nearshore Trawling Byelaw in March 2021, and they are now celebrating three years of ecosystem recovery with the launch of the Sussex Kelp Recovery Project’s (SKRP) three-year progress report.
Kelp is the name given to a group of brown seaweeds, large in size, that form dense aggregations known as ‘kelp forests’.
Historically, kelp was abundant along the Sussex coastline and provided an essential habitat that supported both marine life and local fisheries. But 96% of this important habitat has diminished over time, leaving just a few small patches and individual plants. Through the Sussex Kelp Recovery Project, aims to bring it back for the benefit of nature, fisheries, coastal communities and our planet.
The Sussex Kelp Recovery Project is a collaboration of national and local organisations taking an evidence-based approach to tackle the challenges of recovering kelp beds in Sussex. At the heart of the project are the Sussex Wildlife Trust, Sussex IFCA, Blue Marine Foundation, Zoological Society of London, Queen Mary University of London, University of Brighton, Adur & Worthing Councils, University College London.
The Sussex Kelp Recovery Project research programme has received generous support from numerous funders including through individual sponsored activities, fundraising, and corporate donations. Priavo Security, as a local business based in Sussex, have been long standing supporters of the project.