British Marine and RYA launch sustainability pledge at SIBS

British Marine and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) have launched a new pledge designed to help all boat users actively declare their commitment to following sustainable boating practices.

The Green Blue Boating pledge was officially launched on Wednesday (21 September) at the 2022 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 sailing on inland waterways or at the coast,” says Kate Fortnam, the Green Blue campaign manager. “I’m pleased that we have been able to achieve that.”

British Marine and the Green Blue are in the fourth year of a five-year sustainability partnership, which includes implementing environmental best practice guidance and signage for all SIBS exhibitors.

Fortnam explains that the aim of the Green Blue pledge is to provide boat users with simple, practical guidelines which they can follow and hopefully inspire other boaters to join. “We’ve already had sign-ups from several big names in the boating world, including our patron, [sailor] Mike Golding,” she adds.

The Green Blue say they hope 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 while on the water.

There are fifteen pledge points focussed around the strapline, ‘Respect, Protect, Enjoy.’ Each of the points has been selected as playing a positive role in the well-being of surrounding habitats and wildlife, including: ‘choosing your anchorage with care,’ ‘using eco-friendly products,’ and ‘minimising your wash.’

Fortnam was joined on the Foredeck Stage at SIBS for the official launch by Mike Golding OBE; RYA CEO Sara Sutcliffe; and British Marine CEO, Lesley Robinson.

“The Green Blue pledge, which is supported by the Royal Yachting Association and British Marine, provides simple guidelines that help us respect and care for both the marine and inland environment we enjoy,” says Golding. “How could any self-respecting boat user not sign up?”

If you are visiting the Southampton International Boat Show (16 – 25 September), you can make the pledge at the Green Blue stand in Ocean Hall (stand J202). Alternatively, you can join the Green Boating pledge by visiting the Green Blue website. Boat users who sign up will receive a pledge certificate and a metal pin badge.