Sailing environmentally friendly
Sailing is an extremely green pastime, but it can have some effect on the sea read our article below to find out how you can beome more environmentally friendly.
Hazardous Waste
Incorrect disposal of waste is unnecessary – by using recycling facilities and reducing our waste, we are all contributing to a more environmentally friendly environment, it doesn’t take much effort.
* Cigarettes can be a hazard to birds and other wild life, the ends last up to 5 years, so try and put them out in a small tin, where you can dispose of them at a later date.
* lean up your mess as and when you finish with it, a small gust of wind can blow cans, and paper overboard.
Fuel
Oil and fuel pollutants fro refuelling and oil leaks are very commonly reported throughout the UK, so try using these steps to cut back on this kind of pollution.
* Good check ups on your yachts fuel connections help avoid leaks
* A drip tray under the engine is a requirement on many waterways. If it starts getting oily, find and mend the leak!
* Use a funnel when pouring fuel or oil
Limit sound pollution
* Fit sound insulation around your engine can significantly reduce noise by up to 85% so life on board will be more comfortable
Protecting our wildlife and Sea
* Excessive wash from your yachts can damage vegetation, and erode banks, so if you see that your making too much wash, slow down a little.
* Buy environmentally friendly washing up equipment, soaps and detergents etc.
Reduce exhaust fumes
Exhaust emissions are made up of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and various pollutants. By 2011, the Government has specified that 5% of fuel must come from renewable sources like biodiesel.
* An unmaintained motor yacht engine wastes more fuel and sends out more emissions than a maintained engine, we suggest you take your yacht for a regular service.
* Electric powered crafts have no exhaust emissions and are also extremely quiet, we suggest these for inland waterways.
It’s vital that we all maintain a healthy respect for the sea and work together to protect our shores. If in doubt, remember the 3 R’s…Reduce, Reuse and Recycle!