Climate Change Accelerates Degradation of UK Shipwrecks, Raising Environmental and Historical Concerns
As climate change accelerates, the rising ocean temperatures and increasing frequency of extreme storms are hastening the degradation of shipwrecks, many of which still contain potentially dangerous fuel reserves. The UK’s waters alone hold over 10,000 shipwrecks, yet the identities and cargos of two-thirds of them remain unknown, raising concerns about pollution and environmental harm as these wrecks break down.
Marine archaeologists warn that shipwrecks carrying oil or coal, especially those from both world wars, could pose a severe environmental threat. As the metal structures degrade, there is potential for oil spills, which could have effects akin to a small oil tanker running aground. Such spills can destroy habitats, pollute marine ecosystems, and are notoriously difficult to clean up.
Dr. Julian Whitewright, a maritime investigator, highlights that climate change’s impacts on these wrecks extend beyond sea-level rise and melting icebergs. Coastal erosion, caused by more frequent storms, is exposing shipwrecks at a greater rate. In addition, the warming oceans encourage the migration of marine boring organisms, which degrade wood on shipwrecks faster, while ocean acidification hastens the corrosion of metal parts.
Each shipwreck is unique, and as they degrade, their historical and cultural value disappears. Many of the wrecks in Welsh waters remain unidentified, with a significant portion of surveyed wrecks either misidentified or completely unknown. Dr. Michael Roberts from Bangor University emphasizes the urgency of properly identifying and surveying these wrecks, but funding and resources remain scarce.
Roberts has surveyed the majority of wrecks in Wales, but a dozen off the Pembrokeshire coast still need to be examined. If Wales were to complete this survey, it would become the first country to inventory its entire maritime heritage. However, this effort requires specialized equipment and expertise, notably sonar systems and capable ships like Bangor University’s Prince Madog.
As wrecks continue to degrade, time is running out. In about 40 to 50 years, these shipwrecks could become indistinguishable fragments on the seabed. To mitigate the damage, experts suggest burying these wrecks in sand, which would protect them from erosion, marine organisms, and structural collapse.
An innovative solution to protect wrecks has emerged from the Project Seagrass, which aims to restore seagrass beds in Wales. Seagrass helps trap sediment and can naturally bury shipwrecks, offering them protection from the elements. This project provides hope for safeguarding these relics of maritime history while simultaneously supporting marine conservation efforts. However, the overall situation remains urgent, as many wrecks are already collapsing, and with limited funding, the clock is ticking.
