Seabed Springs Back After Fishing Ban Gives Nature Space to Heal

The United Kingdom is seeing early marine recovery as a trawling ban off the Sussex coast helps seabed habitats regenerate and fish populations begin to return.

“There is so much evidence from around the world that if you protect the marine environment, then life can bounce back,” said Clare Brook.

Since the 2021 ban by the Sussex Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority removed bottom trawling from more than 300 km², signs of revival have emerged. Mussel beds are reappearing across large areas, providing a foundation for kelp forests to regrow, while species like black sea bream and bass are increasing. The region had lost around 96% of its kelp by 2019, but projects like the Sussex Kelp Recovery Project are now tracking a gradual comeback, highlighting how protecting ecosystems can restore biodiversity, support fisheries, and rebuild long-term ocean health.