A citizens’ group focused on protecting the marine environment has teamed up with local marinas to educate an estimated 400,000 recreational boaters on how to minimize their impact on water and air quality.
Boaters cherish their time on the water, but when they congregate in marinas and other anchorages, escaping sewage, bilge and grey water discharges, fuel leaks and even some paint can have a negative impact on the marine environment.
The Georgia Strait Alliance has launched Clean Marine B.C., a voluntary environmental recognition program for marinas, harbour authorities, yacht clubs and boatyards in the province.
“People may love their boats, but we have to raise their awareness and promote a healthier balance with nature,” said Christianne Wilhelmson, executive director of the advocacy group.
“The Clean Marine program advocates for better ocean literacy, reduction in pollution, promotes marina best practices and serves as boater outreach.”
She said the program has proved popular, with Westport Marina in Sidney the first to come aboard in 2008.
Since then, more than 20 marinas have enrolled in the program, seven of them from Greater Victoria, including the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority and the Royal Victoria Yacht Club.
“Apart from reducing pollution, the program is also beneficial to businesses,” said Wilhelmson.
Apart from being more eco-friendly, the Clean Marine designation gives the boating public a recognizable standard.
In a survey for the Georgia Strait Alliance in 2004, almost 90 per cent of boaters questioned said they would likely choose a marina or boatyard that followed best environmental practices, even if they had to pay more to do so.
While docked at marinas enrolled in the program, boaters will have the opportunity to read educational literature with strategies, products and services that can help reduce their impact on the marine environment.
“It’s about sustainability, creating a healthy community with a healthy ecosystem.”