As sailing and water sports enthusiasts, it is our duty to protect the waters that we hold so dear. With the increasing focus on sustainability, and more people participating in water-based activities, it is crucial to be mindful of the impact of our actions on the surrounding environment and take effective measures to preserve the incredible natural ecosystems that surround us. Whether you enjoy coastal cruising or exploring inland waterways, it’s impossible not to notice the upsurge of activity on these waters, and with more people comes more challenges to face. Nobody wants stricter regulations on our time on the water. Therefore, it’s up to each of us to make changes to our behaviour and leave a positive impact on the freshwater and marine habitats every time we venture out onto the waters.

As members of the boating community, it’s our responsibility to help conserve our water resources, and we can achieve this by adopting some voluntary changes in our sailing habits. Safeguarding our waters should not detract from our enjoyment, and conservation and boating can and should coexist. If we all make a commitment to taking the necessary steps towards more responsible sailing practices, we can help protect our invaluable water resources.

Person cleaning beach, wearing a yellow hat and blue vest, picking up litter with a trash grabber near the shoreline.

How can we make a positive impact?

To ensure we are taking responsible actions towards preserving our precious waters, we have identified six key initiatives for you to follow when you are out on the water. By working together and committing to these practices, we can move towards a more sustainable and environmentally-conscious path.

  1. Respect marine habitats by being mindful of the homes we share and avoiding protected areas.
  2. Show care for the wildlife that calls the water home; approach marine wildlife with caution, maintain a safe distance and minimise disruption to their environment.
  3. Anchor responsibly by steering clear of protected sea beds and other sensitive areas.
  4. Take steps to prevent water pollution by making responsible choices; avoid dumping any chemicals into the water and take measures to prevent engine leaks.
  5. Embrace waste reduction and recycling; dispose of waste properly and recycle whenever possible.
  6. We invite you to take The Green Blue boating pledge and commit to environmentally friendly practices.

For additional resources and tips on eco-friendly boating, we recommend visiting The Green Blue and signing up to The Green Blue Boating Pledge.

Logo of The Green Blue, featuring a stylized river and hills within a circle, with text

Click below to find out how we can preserve our marine habitats:

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