Research conducted by Heriot-Watt University has revealed that a significant portion of vessel traffic within Scotland’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) is not being recorded, raising concerns about the potential impact on marine life. Approximately 64% of vessels operating in these sensitive regions do not broadcast their locations via the Automatic Identification System (AIS), leaving most of their activities undetected by current monitoring systems. This study, published in the journal Ocean and Coastal Management, highlights the challenges faced in managing and protecting vital marine ecosystems.
The research team, which included partners from the Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) and the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust, assessed six MPAs: the Moray Firth, Mousa, the Inner Hebrides, Loch Sunart to the Sound of Jura, the Sea of the Hebrides, and Lamlash Bay. The findings indicate that the extent of undetected vessel traffic varies significantly across these areas. For instance, in Lamlash Bay, only 6% of vessels were identified through AIS, while in Mousa and the Sea of the Hebrides, detection rates improved to approximately 50–56%.
Dr. Emily Hague, from the School of Energy, Geoscience, Infrastructure and Society, expressed concerns about the implications of these findings. “AIS data is the most commonly used tool to monitor marine traffic, but our research shows it only captures about a third of the traffic within MPAs,” she stated. “This means we are underestimating the level of human activity and the potential for disturbance or harm within some of Scotland’s most sensitive marine environments.”
Among the vessels that were recorded, a significant number were smaller recreational craft. These boats, including motorboats and yachts, often do not transmit AIS signals and are capable of traveling at higher speeds, generating considerable underwater noise. The study noted that over half of all vessels observed were moving at speeds of 7.5 knots or faster, complicating efforts to monitor their environmental impact.
Despite the critical role of AIS in estimating vessel presence, noise levels, and collision risks, the research indicates that two-thirds of the vessels posing a risk to marine life are not included in existing datasets. Only two of the six MPAs studied have any specific restrictions regarding vessel activities, and these limitations pertain solely to fishing practices. As a result, other types of vessels remain largely unregulated.
Dr. Lauren McWhinnie, a co-author of the study, emphasized the need for a comprehensive reevaluation of how maritime traffic is monitored within these protected areas. “If we want these areas to truly protect the species and habitats they were created for, we need to take a much more comprehensive approach to monitoring vessel traffic,” she said. This could involve integrating AIS with other forms of data, such as underwater acoustics, satellite imagery, and visual observations, to provide a more complete picture of human activity in these vital ecosystems.
The research team advocates for the development of advanced monitoring networks that can combine multiple data sources. They also suggest implementing real-time alert systems to inform mariners when they enter sensitive zones or approach marine mammals, thereby enhancing protection efforts.
Citizen scientists played a pivotal role in gathering data for this study. Volunteers from the Scottish Vessel Project, WDC Shorewatch, and the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust contributed over 1,800 hours of land- and boat-based observations along the Scottish coast. Dr. Hague expressed gratitude for their contributions, noting, “Our volunteers have been out in all weathers collecting data that show just how much traffic is passing through these protected sites.”
Scotland’s coastlines and marine areas are cherished by many, but balancing human activity with the needs of the marine species that inhabit these waters is essential for their conservation. The findings of this study underscore the importance of effective monitoring and management to ensure the preservation of Scotland’s rich marine biodiversity.
