The Marine Strategy Regulations 2010

Functions of the Secretary of State in the development of the marine strategy

5.—(1) The Secretary of State must develop a marine strategy for the marine strategy area in order to—

(a) protect and preserve the marine environment, prevent its deterioration or, where practicable, restore marine ecosystems in areas where they have been adversely affected; and

(b) prevent and reduce inputs into the marine environment, with a view to phasing out pollution, so as to ensure they do not give rise to any significant impacts on or risks to marine biodiversity, marine ecosystems, human health or legitimate uses of the sea.

(2) The marine strategy must apply an ecosystem-based approach to the management of human activities within the marine strategy area.

(3) The marine strategy must consist of the elements required by regulations 10 to 14.

(4) For the purpose of this regulation, an “ecosystem-based approach” means an approach which—

(a) ensures that the collective pressure of human activities within the marine strategy area is kept within levels compatible with the achievement of good environmental status; and

(b) does not compromise the capacity of marine ecosystems to respond to human-induced changes.