Golding launches 'green' initiatve

Green Blue program to encourage boaters and boating business to be more environmentally aware

Worldclass Yachtsman Mike Golding today helped the British Marine Federation (BMF) and the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) launch a new environmental initiative at the Southampton Boat Show. The Green Blue will encourage boaters and boating businesses to be more aware environmentally and take action to limit their impact on the marine environment.

The Green Blue will encourage a sustainable recreational boating community,
through three routes:

- Information: Providing advice and information through a website and publications like its "How to Guide"
- Practical Projects: Establishing practical demonstration projects around the country. Some will be small-scale pilot projects with the potential to be rolled out nationwide.
- Research: The Green Blue has launched a major research study into The Environmental Interactions of Recreational Boating' due out in early 2006. We will link with universities departments to initiate primary research where data is lacking.

The Green Blue's first area of work is focusing attention on the damaging effect small scale oil and fuel spillages can have on local environments. A single litre of fuel can contaminate over a million litres of water. The Green Blue is giving away bilge filters and spill kits to Boatshow visitors as an example of simple steps that can be taken.

Speaking as he launched the Green Blue, worldclass yachtsman, Mike Golding said, "It only takes small actions by each of us who love being out on the water to help safeguard our delicate marine environment. Green Blue's mission - to inform the wider boating community of what actions are the most effective - is an important one. This will be a huge step in the right direction as ultimately, those of us who enjoy being on the water will reap the benefits in the future".

John Clarke, Chief Executive, BMF added "many boaters and businesses have already recognised that by protecting the marine environment now, we will secure the future of the recreational boating industry. The Green Blue will increase this commitment to our environment, an important step as we contemplate a Marine Bill and the Water Framework Directive."

Rod Carr, Chief Executive, RYA, continued: "Everyone that goes boating appreciates being able to enjoy a healthy, sustainable, marine environment. The Green Blue project will inform all who enjoy our beautiful rivers and coastline about the best way to keep them clean and unpolluted. I am delighted that Pippa, Lady Blake is also supporting The Green Blue on behalf of the Sir Peter Blake Trust."

The Crown Estate has announced today that it will be funding the project through its Marine Stewardship Fund. The Green Blue has been awarded funding of £20,000 per year, which will cover both core funding and the seed funding to launch the Green Blue in the Home Countries.

David Philip, Assistant Marine Environmental Policy Manager at The Crown Estate commented, "The Crown Estate is pleased to support The Green Blue. This is a great example of how we can help boating businesses, and others who enjoy the marine environment can show good environmental practice".