Case study: Clyde Marine Partnership, integrating geology into marine planning

The Clyde Marine Planning Partnership is tasked to create a statutory marine plan for the Clyde marine region. The geodiversity of the Clyde has a significant impact on its shape, function and ecosystem. The sediments play an important role in waste breakdown and detoxification of the water as well as supplying the nutrients and minerals that form the basis of the food chain. Soft muds provide essential habitat for Nephrops which form the basis of the Clyde’s main fishery and intertidal mudflats support international numbers of wintering birds. In providing source material for replenishing the beaches the seabed geology is integral to the amenity value of the local coast and the raised beaches in the area provide the base for a number of world renowned golf courses. The topography of the seabed and the surrounding hills plays a significant role in everything from tidal dynamics to wind patterns. The wealth of geodiversity makes the area fascinating for everyone from university students to rock climbers. It is a perfect training ground for a wide range of skills, from geologist to submarine helm or kite flyer!