In order to compile the report, all dredging is monitored by an Electronic Monitoring System (EMS) that is fitted aboard each and every dredger. The EMS then records the date, time, and position of dredging activity in 50m by 50m blocks, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Due to moves forward in technology this year has seen a fourfold improvement in the resolution of dredging activity data.

The results of the report show that a total of 22.76 million tonnes of sand and gravel were extracted from licenced areas in England and Wales during 2001. This represents a small reduction from the 2000 figures when 23.05 million tonnes were dredged.

The total of seabed licenced in 2001 decreased by 6 per cent to 1413km 2, whilst the area of seabed dredged during 2001 reduced by 3 per cent to 173km 2.This reduction in the area of seabed is primarily a result of improved resource and operational management by the marine aggregates industry.

Barry Dennett, Chairman of BMAPA, said: 'BMAPA and the Crown Estate made this commitment to operate transparently and provide as much information as possible about UK dredging. As an industry we are constantly striving to enhance our reputation as a responsible operator in the marine environment.'

In the report, figures for the area licensed and dredged have three categories: from the coast to the six nautical miles (nm); between six nm and the 12 nm territorial limit; and beyond the territorial limit.

Regional data for the Humber, East Coast, Thames, South Coast, South West, and North West is included.