Creating a Sustainable Life at Sea: Eco-Friendly Practices for Yacht Owners

Long after the wave that our vessel leaves as it slips through the water is gone, the environmental impact of our passing remains. The number of crafts on the world’s waters has never been higher and only looks set to increase. Each of us is responsible for doing whatever we can to minimise our negative impact on our environment, and those who spend tranquil hours atop crystal waters dangling a lazy fishing rod or powering through white-water thrill-seeking are no different. The Simpson Marine brand has long been associated with responsible yacht sales, and we proudly champion environmental issues and causes. This article will examine ways to practice sustainable, low-impact sailing with a series of practical tips and tricks to employ when doing our part to save the planet.  

SERVICE AND MAINTAIN YOUR ENGINE REGULARLY

Marine engines can spill oil or fuel straight into the ocean if they spring leaks, causing havoc to the environment and a great deal of distress to any wildlife caught in its aftermath. It should be a non-negotiable aspect of any motorised transport that it is kept in the best condition possible to minimise pollution and damage. Most sensible yacht owners would never dream of neglecting their engines as the dangers and potential costs are high, environmental concerns notwithstanding.

• A bonus of having well-kept engines and equipment is that efficiency will remain high, reducing fuel and oil costs accordingly. 

DISPOSE OF CONTAMINATED WATER RESPONSIBLY

While it may seem perfectly natural for sewage and untreated water from sinks and showers to discharge directly into the water beneath, this can pollute the area and damage fragile aquatic ecosystems. Regulations vary depending on your location but installing holding tanks for your effluent and contaminated water is perfectly feasible. 

• Consider a system whereby dirty sink water can be used to flush toilets or, better still, install compatible units that discharge nothing into the ocean. 

OPT FOR MARINE-SAFE, NON-TOXIC TOILETRIES AND CLEANING PRODUCTS

Even the most careful water controls, holding tanks, and systems cannot prevent some water from entering the sea. This is especially true when cleaning the decks, as runoff cannot be avoided. In this case, choose non-toxic cleaning products that will not negatively affect the local wildlife.

 INSIST ON ECO-FRIENDLY ANTI-FOULING PAINT

Almost all anti-fouling paint worldwide is toxic to the environment it is designed to interact with, particularly if it contains copper oxide, which oxidises the electrochemical reactions of bacteria. Modern versions can be manufactured using ‘non-biocides’ that use a silicon compound to prevent bacterial buildup and damage. These are much less damaging to the environment and last longer than traditional paints.

• Remove old anti-fouling paint when the vessel is out of the water, as the dust will end up in the sea if you scrub it off at the spot.

USE RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES TO POWER YOUR VESSEL

Few places could be more conducive to harnessing the free power at our fingertips than the open ocean, whether in the form of sunlight falling on solar panels, water power driving hydro-generators, or the wind pushing turbines and sails. Using as much renewable energy as possible saves money and is environmentally sound, producing less pollution.

• Check the energy requirements for a vessel of your size before installing any system, and consider a combination of the above for maximum power supply. 

OTHER STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO MINIMISE YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

• Avoid weighing anchor above shellfish beds, coral, or seagrass
• Fish at a sustainable level using rods, not nets
• Choose non-toxic sunscreen and other products
• Stay away from marine life

CONTACT US

If you would like to discuss responsible, sustainable yacht chartering or any other aspect of Simpson Marine and our services, please get in touch at your earliest convenience. Our dedicated, professional team will also be happy to impart any details you require about our fantastic range of vessels.