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Jersey Marine Conservation – 2nd Submission
My only comment on the use of plastic for reef building as suggested by one of the stakeholders, is that many of the plastic objects we encounter during our surveys are breaking down. If algae forms on the plastic then potentially particles will be eaten and digested since this is a key food source. I cannot recall seeing much significant reef growth on such items as sunken buoys on the sea bed. The Crabs like them though.
Nylon Rope attached to old pots (and even new ones) causes a lot of damage to small reefs and sea grass around our Island. The Tidal range and strong current causes the rope to work like a saw. As it rubs against rocks small strands continuously break away. Unfortunately there is not natural substitute strong enough to replace nylon rope.
In fairness though, it's rubbish coming off the Island such as plastic bags, polystyrene cups and drinking bottles that are having the greatest impact on marine life. These objects float on or near the surface.
Thanks once again for drawing our concerns to the scrutiny panel.