Charity celebrates 30 years of marine conservation

We had 999 passengers on RV COAST Explorer this year, ranging from school groups and citizen scientists to university researchers and dive groups, showcasing its role as a vital resource for education and marine research and exploration.

We were delighted a PhD student from the University of Glasgow chartered COAST Explorer to carry out his research exploring associations between juvenile fish and certain seabed habitats and we continued adding to our long-term research on seabed habitat and scallop populations through collaboration with NatureScot, which took the lead on the surveys within the No Take Zone this year.

The most active areas of data collection in 2024 were citizen science activities, particularly the research surveys from RV COAST Explorer, but also shore and underwater Seasearch surveys which directly contribute to a national effort to track the health of our marine environments.

There has also been shore litter surveys as part of the Beachwatch programme and the Great British Beach Clean event in September. We have also mapped a new small area of seagrass in Lamlash Bay first spotted by open water swimmers.

While less visible, our policy work is one of the most critical aspects of COAST’s efforts as advocacy and evidence-based input shape the frameworks that govern marine management.

Using data from Arran’s No Take Zone and Marine Protected Area, we continue to advocate for stronger protections and better management for our seas locally and nationally.

Arran’s protected areas demonstrate that putting in zoning to remove major impacts has positive benefits on the marine environment and that communities have a role in marine protection. We actively respond to government consultations and continue to contribute to the Clyde Marine Plan to ensure community voices are integrated into decision-making processes.

In 2024, COAST undertook a significant project to evaluate our audiences and plan for future engagement.

The resulting comprehensive activity plan focuses on expanding our work with young people on Arran and across North Ayrshire.

Alongside this, we reviewed our internal governance and are on track to achieve the Trusted Standard and Investing in Volunteers accreditations, ensuring we operate at the highest standards for a charity. We’ve also tentatively begun exploring development opportunities for our Lamlash site, envisioning how it can serve the community and our mission even better in future.

None of this work would be possible without our exceptional team of volunteers who selflessly give up their time to help in a range of ways. 

This year, more than 95 volunteers have given almost 5,000 hours to COAST, equivalent to two and a half full-time members of staff. Their dedication is the backbone of our success and we are grateful for their support.

As we prepare to celebrate 30 years of community-led marine conservation in 2025, we’re planning a series of events, including an open day in August, to thank the community and look ahead to the next three decades of possibilities.

Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who has supported us in 2024 and wish you a happy and peaceful 2025.