Sustainable Boating Pledge launched

SUSTAINABLE Boating Pledge has been launched at the Southampton International Boat Show.

Including narrowboat liveaboards, the Green Blue Boating Pledge is a new way for all boat users to show their commitment to protecting and respecting the environment, it was announced yesterday.

Declare their commitment

It  has been created for boat users to actively declare their commitment to following sustainable boating practices. The Pledge will help raise awareness of important environmental issues, such as water pollution, and will inspire boat users to learn more about what they can do to lower their impact whilst on the water.

There are fifteen Pledge points focussed around the strapline, ‘Respect, Protect, Enjoy.’ Each of the points have been selected as playing a positive role in the well-being of surrounding habitats and wildlife, these range from ‘Choosing your moorings with care,’ to ‘using eco-friendly products,’ and ‘minimising your wash.’

Boat users can sign-up online to join the Pledge via The Green Blue website and will receive a Pledge certificate and a metal pin badge.

On inland waterways

Kate Fortnam, pictured, The Green Blue Campaign Manager, explained:

“We’re really proud to be launching The Green Blue Boating Pledge at the Southampton International Boat Show. We really wanted to create a Pledge which encompassed the range of sustainable actions and behaviours that boaters can implement, whether they’re on inland waterways or at the coast, and I’m pleased that we have been able to achieve that.

“The aim of the Pledge is to provide boat users with simple, practical guidelines which they can follow and hopefully inspire other boaters to join."

The Green Blue is a joint environment programme between the RYA and British Marine to encourage a more sustainable recreational boating sector.

To find out more about The Green Blue visit www.thegreenblue.org.uk