The Marine Environment Protection Fund (MEPF) is the main Marine aggregate delivery partner of Defra’s Aggregate Levy Sustainability Fund (ALSF). The MEPF is administered by Cefas, and governed by the Marine ALSF Steering Group, chaired by Defra. The MEPF has operated from 1st April 2004. The MEPF is supported by an Evaluation Panel.
 
The Evaluation Panel has responsibility for reviewing priority areas considered by Government Departments as being suitable for marine ALSF funding. The Panel also has responsibility for setting specific science deliverables ensuring that ALSF objectives. The aim is to ensure that the ALSF is used to procure research which delivers projects that:

• Reduce the local effects of marine aggregate extraction.
• Promote environmentally friendly practices for the extraction of marine aggregates.
• Undertake strategic research into the environmental consequences of marine aggregate extraction.
• Reduce the environmental impacts of using marine aggregate in coastal protection schemes.

For more information go to www.alsf-mepf.org.uk