CAOLAS (Community Association of Lochs and Sounds) is a west coast Scottish charity working to protect our coastal waters through research, education, and local action. Based in communities around Loch Sunart and the Sound of Mull, we connect people to place and help shape the future of our marine environment.
Since 2015, the Community Association Of Lochs And Sounds (CAOLAS) has been promoting the conservation of Loch Sunart and the Loch Sunart to Sound of Jura Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). We have been working with residents and visitors to the West Highland Peninsulas to promote sustainable use of these waters and have been delivering a series of talks and workshops.
CAOLAS Community Area
Explore the CAOLAS area and our projects on our map
CAOLAS
Membership Area
Loch Sunart to
Sound of Jura MPA
“Many individuals are doing what they can… real success can only come if there is a change in our societies…”
Sir David Attenborough
Latest News from CAOLAS
Here’s what we’re looking forward to over the coming weeks.
29 June 2026
Fauna and Flora Morvern film
Fauna and Flora made a beautiful film of the Morvern area.
16 May 2026
Consultation on management measures for Inshore Marine Protected Areas
The delayed consultation on management measures for Inshore Marine Protected Areas is coming soon.
13 March 2026
Oceans film
Caolas are thrilled to be able to show the Oceans film by David Attenborough within our area.
What’s happening soon…
Here’s what we’re looking forward to over the coming weeks.
Formed in 2015 by local residents passionate about marine protection, CAOLAS became a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) in 2017. Since then, we have contributed to a growing movement of community-led marine conservation across Scotland. Our region was designated the UK’s first Mission Blue Hope Spot, recognising the global significance of this biodiverse coastline and the power of grassroots stewardship.