Water pollution is everyone’s problem. Help marine life to flourish with our tips for greener boating…
Most boat users know that when we work on boats, and clean or shower onboard, toxins can enter the water. The build-up of harmful chemicals, from activities such as blackwater disposal and cleaning product run-off, removes vital oxygen from the water resulting in significant damage to marine ecosystems. Chemicals that are digested by marine life infiltrate the food chain, gradually accumulating in greater concentrations as they work their way up. By always thinking about our actions and ensuring we carry out tasks responsibly we can ensure our boating doesn’t harm our precious habitats and its marine life.
Blackwater release
If you have toilet facilities onboard how do you dispose of the sewage? Blackwater discharged into
nearby waters can adversley impact marine life by creating algae blooms. Wherever possible, try to make use of on-shore toilets and pump-out facilities. The Environmental Facilities Map can help – this new online resource lists your nearest harbour or marina with environmental marine facilities, including pump-out stations, recycling facilities and freshwater refill points.
Composting toilets are a great alternative to cut down on waste and chemicals but should always be disposed of at dedicated facilities rather than into the water or on the land.
Oil and fuel
Prevention is better than cure. There are many ways you can avoid oil and fuel making its way into our
waters. Importantly, always use a fuel collar over nozzles when refuelling – this will catch any unwanted drips when moving the fuel nozzle across the deck. Check the engine bilge for oil before pumping and use an absorbent sock to remove oil and fuel in the bilge. A simple trick is to place a drip tray under the engine; on many waterways this is a requirement. It is starts getting oily, find and mend the leak. You can find filter products by visiting the Business Directory.
Cleaning products
When you’re cleaning either your boat, your dishes, or yourself, chemicals can easily end up in the waters. Products used on boat hulls and decks often contain microplastics, chlorine, ammonia, potassium hydroxide and solvents – all potentially harmful to the aquatic environment. Whilst washing your boat, avoid using cleaning products altogether and only use fresh water and a good scrubbing brush. This also helps to protect sealants which can perish and lose colour from using certain detergents.
Look out for products with polyethylene in their ingredients: this means they contain microplastics.
these tiny bits of plastic are easily ingested by wildlife and enter food chains. Instead, try sourcing more eco-friendly alternatives that contain natural ingredients and are just as effective. The Business Directory an help you find the right products. With just a few tweaks to your onboard cleaning processes, you can improve water quality for the benefit of marine life and boating enthusiasts.
Join the sustainable boating community!
If you’re passionate about protecting our inland and marine habitats for future generations, then why not join The Green Blue Boating Pledge? The Boating Pledge allows you to show your commitment to making your boating more environmentally sustainable. Make your Pledge today!
