Nature conservation in Skjálfandi Bay

Abstract

This thesis proposes the establishment of marine protected area (MPA) with no-take zones in Skjálfandi Bay based on the ecocentric perspective. To describe the criteria and challenges for establishing an MPA in Skjálfandi, the case study method was used. For the first time in a thesis study, the Marine Mammals Management Self-Assessment Tool (Web-SAT) was used to define what actions need to be taken in order to implement an MPA in Skjálfandi. The area of Skjálfandi needs protection because it is an important feeding ground for cetaceans. The study's key findings include the need for an underwater noise policy since marine animals use sound to navigate underwater and there is evidence for underwater noise pollution. Speed limits below 10 knots should be in force within marine mammal critical habitat areas to avoid collisions as well as to reduce underwater noise pollution. There should be some actions taken in order to mitigate entanglements and marine mammal by-catch. It is necessary to ban fishing in marine mammal key zones of an MPA. There is no evidence that the whale watching voluntary Code of Conduct is being followed, hence enforcement is recommended. Creating an MPA with no-take zone will allow ecosystems to recover from anthropogenic impact and thrive. Iceland has a potential to be a leader in marine nature conservation and contribute towards “protection of 30% of land and sea by 2030” goal set by UNEP.