The Green Blue are pleased to announce that TV Personality, explorer and marine biologist Monty Halls has given his support to the project and will be doing a presentation about his second series of 'Great Ocean Adventure' at the London Boat Show. This is due to be screened early 2007 and promises to be even more entertaining with beautiful rare footage of some stunning marine life. Memorable moments include Monty diving among a frightening number of Giant Humboldt Squid – not the most relaxing of assignments in his life as a TV presenter!
A former Royal Marines Officer and trained marine biologist, Monty has led teams through some of the most demanding environments on land and at sea. His adventures include discovering pre-historic settlements amid great white sharks, avoiding the bullets of poachers, and photographing a dangerous and rare crocodile underwater for the first time.
This fascinating talk along with exciting footage of the new series will held in conjunction with The Green Blue on Friday 5th January on the purpose built stage. Anyone is free to attend once they are in the show and we really hope you will be able to join us for what will be a fantastic event.
The Green Blue starts the new season by offering advice to boat owners and marine businesses about becoming more resource efficient. Please do visit us to find out more and pick up your free 2007 wall planner..... more details to follow so watch this space!
The London Boat Show runs from 5th - 14th January 2007 at ExCel, London
The Collins Stewart London Boat Show website Read Monty Halls Biography 
All marine businesses have some form of premises which consumes energy for lighting, heating or office and workshop equipment. As with all industries there is now a real emphasis on increasing energy efficiency and minimising resource use. There are a number of ways to do this to suit all budgets but often those that give the highest return involve initial investment.
The good news is there is now help available to SME's from the government, through the Carbon Trust. The Carbon Trust is offering energy-efficiency loans to encourage SME's to invest in energy saving equipment that either replaces or upgrades existing facilities, for instance energy saving lighting or insulation for boilers, hot water tanks and pipe work.
The loan is interest free and works in the following way. For instance, if you borrow £100,000 and the savings for your energy bill are £50,000pa that is how much you pay. Therefore, after two years, your loan is paid off and all the savings become yours. The loans need to be paid off within four years, so if savings are less than your loan, you will have to make up the difference.
For further information on the loan scheme contact the Carbon Trust by calling their helpline on 0800 085 2005 or alternatively complete their checklist on their website to determine eligibility.
The Carbon Trust Loans page Environmental Code of Practice gives practical advice of ways to reduce energy consumption Find out how a new watersports centre used grants to fund their altrnative energy generation 
Green Blue Ambassador and Open 60 skipper Mike Golding announced that following the rescue of Alex Thomson and subsequent mast damage
sustained to Ecover, he will retire from competing further in the Velux 5 Oceans Race. Mike had been sending us a series of weblogs with a green slant from the race, a copy of those sent before the retirement can be read below.
This decision to retire follows Golding's dramatic rescue of fellow competitor Alex Thomson and the subsequent dismasting of Ecover in the Southern Ocean, 1000 miles off the southern tip of Africa.
Since the incident Golding's team has worked tirelessly to find various solutions that would allow the yacht to continue racing. The team has received fantastic support from its sponsor, and the team's technical suppliers - each of whom were prepared to do whatever it takes to help Mike rejoin the race. Other generous offers of help have also been received from around the world.
Mike commented,
"The decision to retire has been a very difficult one and one that has been taken in consultation with my sponsor. Clearly the timings and costs are a major factor, but from a competitive and safety standpoint there are additional factors that have finally led us to make this choice."
"Competitively Ecover will now be unable to catch the other boats on this leg. Therefore from a safety standpoint, I would be completely alone in the Southern Ocean without the safety cover extended by fellow competitors. Alex's problems and his consequent need to be rescued is a sharp reminder than we cannot ignore the safety implications of restarting from Cape Town so far behind the main fleet."
"As a team we also pride ourselves on high levels of planning and preparation in pursuit of excellence. To rejoin the race at this stage would put us firmly on the back foot and safety may well be compromised. This is unacceptable to me, the team and to our sponsor."
Mike Golding's Green Blue blog
Dramatic mid-ocean rescue
Much has happened onboard Ecover since my last Green Blue blog.
We have been inundated with flying fish, sprayed with ink by a giant squid (the boat not me), seen turtles dolphins and whales, enjoyed numerous species of sea birds - most recently the magnificent Albatross or Albert Ross as I call him. We have moved from the steamy tropics through the balmy South Atlantic and into the beginning of the frozen South. From an enviromental perspective there is much to be optimistic about, the Oceans, the very engine of our environment, as ever, providing a rich tapestry of wildlife and varied environments.
So for me to see just a single plastic bag or can floating past the boat in the south Atlantic may seem slightly irrelevant!
Given that I am travelling through millions upon millions of square mile of ocean, it a reasonable assumption that if I see just one item of waste - then we are talking about millions upon million of items in the ocean around me. I'm afraid that I saw many more signs than just the one!
At one point I had to take avoiding action to stop Ecover from sailing into huge 100ftX100ft polypropylene fishing net which was adrift in the middle of nowhere - I am sure a positive a joy to the turtles, fish and birds which will become entangled and die before this net is eventually consumed by the oceans action.
But the last visible impact of environmental pollution all but disappeared as we moved into the more remote South, or has it?
Our first safety waypoint to the SW of South Africa is designed to prevent the yachts from sailing too far south. This is done because of the increased presence and danger of icebergs in the Southern Ocean as billion year old glaciers and ice shelves break away from Antarctica and drift north to oblivion in rising global temperatures.
The invisible ozone layer, that is much depleted here, requires that despite the cold and overcast skies, sun block is required to protect from burning UV.
The invisible ozone layer, that is much depleted here, requires that despite the cold and overcast skies, sun block is required to protect from burning UV.
No, in moving South I may have escaped the visible signs only to arrive in a place where in fact, much more profound signs of global change lurk just beyond my vision.
6th November 2006 - Fishworks Night
Great gains for us all around in the last 36 hours, Ecover is, for now at least, past the Doldrums but our charge forward in the rankings has come to an end for now . We have not stopped, but we are headed and unable to lay the direct course. This is the early signs of the SE Trades but for now the wind is still shifty and squally. In these continuously changing conditions it is really difficult to know what to set as the sailplan - too much of a compromise and miles will be lost - to little compromise and something could get broken in one of these squalls. I saw 47 kts in a vicious squall yesterday and this morning under full sail Ecover was laid flat by sheer pressure of wind from a rain cloud before I could reach the mainsheet. It's in conditions like this the B&G autopilot is worked exceptionally hard, trying to match the ever changing wind. The pilots do an amazing job and they are getting better year by year - these are the best yet but occasionally a fast heading gust will tack the boat and the pilot can do absolutely nothing about it. What I like is that the B&G sounds an alarm then gamely continues to try to get the boat back on course, many pilots would fold at this point and release the helm which is the last thing you want. The only solution to this "hove too" condition (yes open 60's can "heave too") is to wear right around and gybe, a real pain but the best way to avoid damage. During the night we were bombarded by flying fish, some hit the boat so hard and so loudly, it sounded as if something serious had broken - several trips on deck with a torch revealed nothing but ever increasing numbers of fish. Travelling at around 30mph, if one of these things hits you , it hurts (plus it scares the bejesus out of you).
3rd November 2006 - Sealife and Bits
It would be easy to imagine that in our prolonged exposure to marine life we may become blasé about it. For me this is simply not true and, because the ocean drip feeds these contacts I doubt it is true of any one who puts to sea. Since the race start I have had birds on board (yes the feathered one's Andrea!), seen Dolphins including a tiny baby leaping through our wake in formation and even more impressive running alongside at night in the green glow of phosphorescence, yesterday I had the strange squid thing and flying fish galore and just moments ago a nudge against a turtle (minimum impact naturally) who looked stunned but otherwise fine after the great towering white beast from above woke his slumbering progress across the mid Atlantic. We are at last moving better again, under spinnaker at 12kts but the bungee has let Bernard away to virtually the same starting distance after Coruna which is mighty frustrating. The polls showed Alex slow this morning - I hear he is having to ascend the mast for some problem with his Solent. Kojiro is back on the money and as also pulled away a little but now, at last, I hope that may be set up on a port gybe in a good spot to be able to select my best ITCZ crossing. It will be important to do a good crossing if we are to prevent Bernard from a full on runaway of this leg. Manoeuvring (or just plain sailing) under the 400 sq mtr spinnaker with these boats brings you is the smallest step away from a major disaster, potentially destroying the sail or perhaps far worse. I have tried every known gybing technique but the reality is that I still say a little prayer before each manoeuvre and I still get right royal foul ups. There just seems to be no way of avoiding the perils of a gybe - Jean Le Cam claimed that on the last Vendee he did not gybe but tacked around each time - nice one Jean! No in reality praying and finger crossing seem about as effect as all other strategies.
27th October 2006
"The Velux 5 Oceans fleet were hammered in Biscay by an un forecast storm
which saw more than 70 kts of wind and huge seas totally strafe the fleet.
The result four well prepared ocean going racing yachts including Ecove
were forced to make stops within 72hours of the start of leg one of this
solo around the world race.
Was this a glitch in the weather and our forecasting? - or are larger forces
at work?
The reality is that this storm is most likely a purely local isolated event
but, - looking at other weather events in the news all around our planet one
would have to say that - there is general evidence of a trend towards more
and more extreme weather events, I think by now most accept this as a
straight fact. We know from the scientists that eventually, in the not so
distant future these effects will be far more significant than forcing four
race boats to stop racing, they are talking about real disasters of truly
biblical proportion.
This fact that we may not know how much we (the Human Race) contribute to
this change process is irrelevant - we all know in our hearts that we have
to change how we treat our planet if we want to continue to enjoy it fruits.
It is true that global weather has always been in flux over millennia but we
now seem to be seeing significant changes in mere decades !!!.
There will be no quick technology driven rescue for this type of global
change. It is a matter of grunting up for the long haul (- a bit like the
enormous circumnavigation ahead of me) initially through education and
seemingly micro measures changing what we do day by day. The result (if we
keep at it) will help lead to the cultural shift we need to improve and
sustain our local, marine and eventually even our global environment."
Knuckling down to the task - in pursuit of the end goal -
Mike, 188 miles west of Lisbon enroute to Freemantle Aus.
Watch the video of Mike talking about The Green Blue Project The latest news from Mike Golding Yacht Racing Join Mike in taking up The Green Blue Challenge by requesting your code of conduct here The Green Blue Challenge 
Over 250 guests joined Calcutt boats in celebrating the opening of their new basin on November 3rd. The family owned company situated on the Grand Union Canal has completely redesigned the original proposals to make the whole development more ecologically friendly and sympathetic towards the surrounding landscape.
They have included many imagainative alternatives to traditional contstruction materials such as re-useing motorway crash barriers for pilings and sustainable timber for jetties and walkways. The family have long been involved in maintaining the surrounding landscape and wildlife and have been planted numerous trees over the years with the help of local school children.
The result is a peaceful, tranquil marina that provides the perfect mooring to get away from it all and as Matt Preen from Calcutt Boats says:
"We have been absolutely delighted with the feedback from our customers regarding the look and feel of the new marina, many commenting that it surpasses anything they have seen before, a testament to its green credentials. With 95% of the available berths taken prior to opening, it is evident that an environmentally friendly approach can make financial sense."
So if you are planning a trip on the Grand Union why not see for yourself and have a look at the fantastic new basin.
Please download the case study below for more details about project and construction.
Case Study - Calcutt Boats More about Calcutt Boats 
The Green Blue has an exciting job opportunity for a part- time Project Officer to coordinate the project in Wales.
The Green Blue (Wales) Project Officer
Salary - £21,000 pa pro-rata for 3 days a week
Location - Plas Menai/Cardiff (negotiable)
12-month fixed-term contract (subject to further funding)
The post holder will be responsible for the delivery of this programme in Wales, responding to local needs and priorities on the ground and building partnerships with key organisations in Wales as well as working with a small group of volunteers. Delivery of the programme will nevertheless remain closely aligned with UK wide The Green Blue programme and its aims and objectives.
The successful candidate may come from an environmental or community development background – or be working within a marine business. Personal, voluntary or professional experience of the boating world will be essential. You will be comfortable building relationships with a wide range of people and organisations, as demonstrated by your experience. Working independently or as part of a team, you’ll be able to assist with numerous projects and achieve outstanding results.
You will have a full UK driving licence and your own transport, mileage will be paid.
Closing date: Wednesday 29th November
Interview date: Week beginning 11th December in Plas Menai or Cardiff
The RYA is committed to equality of opportunities
For a full job description and an application pack for this vacancy please contact info@thegreenblue.org.uk or telephone 023 8060 4273 for an informal chat with the Project Manager, Sarah Black
Visit Groundwork in the East of Englands web site South Essex Project Officer job description Green Blue Wales
The latest version of the Environmental Code of Practice (ECoP) has received a face lift! The ECoP is now completely web based and has it's own dedicated address at www.ecop.org.uk
The Code, originally the first initiative under the Green Blue project, is produced in partnership with the BMF, RYA and Environment Agency and was re-launched at this months Southampton Boat Show.
The latest code builds upon the excellent advice and best practice from the previous version, launched at the 2005 London Boat Show and reflects all the changes in UK environmental legislation made since then.
The Code itself is broken down in sub sections including Legal Aspects, Practical Advice, Incident Management and Useful Contacts. In each of these sections, you can download the Code as a .pdf document. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the code and links are provided to retrieve this application.
New Additions to the Code
Download the new code of practice See below to find out if there is an event happening near you 
Do you run a marine business or sailing club in the South West or Isle of Wight?
Are you concerned about the impact you may be having on the marine environment?
Do you want to find out what environmental legislation affects your company and what you can do to comply with it?
If so, The Green Blue along with Envision in the South West and UKSA on the Isle of Wight invites you to attend their seminar to promote awareness of the Environmental Code of Practice. This was written in partnership between the BMF, RYA and Environment Agency and the event aims to offer advice and listen to the issues and opinions of those working in the recreational marine sector regarding environmental best practice.
Plymouth, Mountbatten Saiing Centre - 4th November 11am - 1 pm
Falmouth, Marine Skills Centre - 7th November 10am - 1pm
Cowes, UKSA - 15th November 10am - 1pm
Other benefits of raising environmental awareness include limiting exposure to prosecution and fines (risk management), opportunities for organisations to save money by implementing best practice and improving market position by aligning themselves with the aims of green business and tourism.
The Green Blue hopes to take these regional training events around the country over the coming year and is on the lookout for companies who have successfully implemented an environmental management system or introduced ‘green’ practices to share their experience and knowledge. If you think you may be able to host an event for us, we would also be interested to hear from you.
Book your place for the event in Plymouth Book your place for the event in Falmouth Book your place for the event in Cowes 
This months seasional maintenance article comes from Alan Wilson who has recently fitted a holding tank on his Nauticat 33. Alan put its installation through vigorous testing having just returned from sailing around the coast of Norway.
In the comprehensive report he covers subjects such as why you should choose to fit a holding tank, what considerations need to be taken before hand, how to estimate the size of tank needed and of course how to actually fit it.
It is well known that the disposal of sewage from boats on inland waterways is prohibited by law and navigation authorities require that sea toilets are sealed. However, on small craft (less than 15 passengers) on our coastal waters it is left to the individuals judgement (although do check local regulations or byelaws) and are often not used.
In order to assist and encourage recreational boaters in locating and using pump-out facilities within the UK, the Green Blue has produced a series of maps covering both inland and coastal areas. These are divided into regions and give both the location and contact details for each provider.
Read the full article Download The Green Blue's pump out directory 
The British Urban Regeneration Association (BURA), The Waterways Trust and all their category sponsors are once again proud to open the Waterways Renaissance Awards for their fifth year. These awards are at the forefront of identifying and celebrating best practice in delivering sustainable waterway focused regeneration, successful environmental schemes and innovative community initiatives that are contributing to the continuing renaissance of the UK’s inland waterways.
Entries are invited from small scale community inspired initiatives to multi million pound area based regenerations. The ten award categories allow for all aspects of the work being undertaken on our waterways to receive fair and unbiased consideration.
Recognition through these prestigious awards marks the winners out as truly inspirational leaders in the waterway renaissance. Waterways are increasingly being recognised for the value they add to developments undertaken in their vicinity. Projects or schemes that in turn add value back to the waterways and enhance the public's experience of them can help create sustainable and inclusive communities where people want to live, work and visit.
The ten separate award categories ensure that best practice exemplars are properly recognised across the diversity of work being undertaken on and around our waterways.
The closing date for entries is 20th October 2006. For details of the assessment criteria and how to enter contact the awards team on 020 7539 4030
More information abuot the BURA awards scheme Download the entry form Contact the awards team 
World class Yachtsman, Mike Golding issued his Green Blue challenge to three prominent figures in the boating world on Friday 15 September at the Southampton Boat Show.
Rod Carr, Chief Executive of the RYA, Dick Durham, Features Editor of Yachting Monthly and Jon Eads, Managing Director of MDL Marinas, accepted the Challenge to ‘Green Up’ their boating activities from Mike in front of the world's marine press.
Mike, regarded as one of the world’s best offshore racing sailors is a champion for the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and British Marine Federation’s (BMF) Green Blue environmental initiative. The Green Blue provides boaters with practical advice and information to help them think and act in an environmentally conscious way
"When the going gets tough in a solo ocean race” said Mike, “often the way through it is to take it one day at a time. In the same way, all boat owners can make a difference to the environment one step at a time. Each step may not seem like much, or may even seem futile to the individual concerned, but it's amazing how they all add up and what can be achieved".
All three of the prominent boaters identified areas in their boating activity where they could be more environmentally aware and make improvements.
MDL's Jon Eads explained how, as a sailor turned motor boater with a young family, he could do his bit: "We motorboaters get a bad press, whether it be accusations of noise, wash or smoke, so I feel I need to make a special effort to complete this Green Blue Challenge.”
Dick Durham of Yachting Monthly recalled how a young seal had got a plastic beer can holder round its neck and as it grew the plastic got tighter; eventually strangling it. “Now we know the harm thatseemingly innocent rubbish can cause, there's simply no excuse for throwing anything over the side."
Rod Carr, confessed that he had been guilty in the past of pumping his bilges without checking for anything nasty in them first. "It's too late to say sorry to your neighbours and the environment when the telltale multicoloured oil rings start emanating from your vessel. It's not socially acceptable, let alone environmentally acceptable to pump contaminated water into the sea”
To get them started the three boaters were presented with environmentally conscious goody-bags containing spill-kits, green cleaning products from Ecover, Plastimo binoculars and wildlife spotting charts so they could spot and recordsome of the creatures they were going todo their bit to protect.
The public can take up Mike's Green Blue Challenge, thanks to the 'Environmental Code of Conduct', available from The Green Blue at the RYA stand. This handy sticker can be used by boat owners to proclaim their boat a 'Green Blue Boat' and includes a host of handy environmentally aware tips.
Read a copy of the Code of Conduct Request a Code of Conduct sticker for your boat 
One of the key themes at this years Southampton Boat Show was promoting environmental stewardship. This theme has been actively promoted by The Green Blue over the last year and was rewarded with a slice of cake and glass of champagne as we celebrated our first anniversary (pictured are Rod Carr, Pippa Blake and Rob Stevens cutting the cake).
Our ambassadors who were at the show include Mike Golding who was launching the code of conduct earlier in the week and Lady Pippa Blake, a renowned artist and Trustee of the Sir Peter Blake Trust.
Over the course of the year and at the show, The Green Blue have been delighted at the enthusiasm they have met in the marine industry. Only a year in the project and they are already working with a wide variety of marine industry representatives and individuals working a variety of projects from waste management issues to tackling antifouling run-off. There are however still plenty of opportunities to get involved and we would love to hear from you!
We would like to say a bit thank you to those who have supported and contributed to the success of The Green Blue over the last year and hope we can build on this to make our second year even more successful.
Do you have any feedback or comments about the project?
Green is the theme of a new boat show being held on Salhouse Broad on Saturday 30th September and green companies are being invited to exhibit free. If you aren't exhibiting, why not visit the many boats, traders and activities on offer.
The show is being organised by a partnership involving the Broads Society, the Broads Authority, the Electric Boat Association and the owner of Salhouse Broad with financial assistance coming from The Green Blue and the Sustainable Development Fund. The owner of the Broad has also waived all mooring and location hire costs to support the event and encourage green boating.
The boat show will provides a waterside showcase for sustainable boating and other waterside activities and entrance will be free. It will appeal to all ages and abilities and will include boating demonstrations and the opportunity for visitors to try out silent boat trips on the Broad. A marquee will house stands for green traders, displays on sustainable developments in the Broads, roadshows and hands-on activities for children, with green goody bags full of handy tips, thought provoking information and water saving devices. Refreshments will be available and a Traditional Jazz band will provide entertainment in the afternoon.
Peter Howe, a member of the Broads Society and one of the organising committee said, “We plan that the show will a good day out for all the family, and will give a fantastic opportunity to see the tremendous advances that are taking place in sustainable boating developments in the Broads area”
Car parking will be available for visitors arriving by road but to encourage environmentally friendly travel a free water taxi service will run from Wroxham to Salhouse Broad every 45 minutes. The water taxis will be electrically powered, providing visitors with a first hand experience of the advantages of quiet, electric propulsion.
For opening times please follow this link and for more information about the show email Peter Howe of the Broads Society or call 01603 783 096
The Electric Boat Association promotes and serves the needs of all those who have an interest in electric boating More information about the Broads Society The Broads Authority web site 
Since the launch of The Green Blue at last years Southampton Boat Show we have focused on the themes of oil & fuel and waste management. This season, we have turned our attention to encouraging boat users and the marine industry to appreciate wildlife.
To launch the wildlife theme, round-the-world yachtsman Mike Golding will be talking about watching out for wildlife and and encouraging boaters to navigate carefully, see more and disturb less.
We will also have copies of our new Code of Conduct to take away and display on your boat as well as a competition to win a wild day out with one of the UK's leading experts in wildlife watching or a magnum of champagne!
So if you're planning a visit to the Southampton Boat Show this year, come and visit us on the BMF/RYA stand E052 and find out what you can do to think and act in a more environmentally friendly way in your business or on your boat.
Do you have a burning question about boats and the environment you want answered?
The Green Blue wil be hosting a talk and question time with internationally renowned yacht designer, Simon Rogers. Working with the International Fund for Animal Welfare, Simon has designed one of the few dedicated marine mammal research vessels in existence. The question time panel will also include IFAW, Halyard and Sarah Black, Project Manager for The Green Blue.
Join us in hospitality Suite one between 14.00 and 15.00, all welcome.
More about the Southampton Boat Show Five tips from The Green Blue about how to appreciate wildlife Did you know? Amazing facts about marine wildlife 
Congratulations to Mrs Saunders, owner of Hamble Cover Services in Mercury Marina, Hamble who has won a digital camera from Environmental Business Products Ltd. simply by sending her old inkjet cartridge to be recycled using The Green Blue recycling bag.
Ink Again hold a monthly prize draw with winners either receiving a digital camera, printer or 5 inkjet cartridges and for every cartridge that is recycled, £1 will go back into The Green Blue initiative making everyone a winner!
Inkjet cartridges take about 1000 years to decompose in landfill sites so by recycling your used cartridges not only is the amount of waste being sent to landfil reduced but it also means less amounts of carbon emmissions and oil will be used in the process.
This year, all visitors to Southampton Boat Show picking up a show guide will receive a Green Blue Inkagain bag to recycle their Hewlett Packard, Lexmark, Dell and various Canon pinter cartridges. Alternatively, if you can't make the show, register online with The Green Blue as Mrs Saunders did for your information pack containing a recycling bag.
Request larger quantities of bags quoting 'The Green Blue Recycling Appeal' Visit the Southampton Boat Show web site for more information about the Show 
Since the beginning of August, there have been at least two reports of stranded dolphins and also seal strandings around UK coasts.
To ensure all members of the public know how to deal and report these incidents the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has offered some advice which may be of use to any sailors and boat users spotting a stranded animal.
On the 3rd August Solent Coastguard had to liaise with various rescue organisations after Chichester Harbour Master reported a stranded dolphin. The dolphin was transported to a safe place with the assistance of The British Divers Marine Life Rescue Organisation (BDMLO) where it was released back into the sea.
The 19th August saw the Dover Coastguard, Folkestone Coastguard Rescue Team Littlestone Inshore RNLI and the BDMLO all involved in the attempted rescue of two dolphins reported to be entangled in fishing nets. The mammals were very distressed which made a rescue operation difficult.
Multiple seal strandings have been reported in the Yarmouth area this summer resulting in a huge number of calls to the Coastguard. They are now trying to publicise a simple message to all coastal visitors as seals do regularly haul themselves out of the water as part of their normal behaviour.
If you find a live seal, watch it from a distance. Do not approach it. If it looks healthy, leave it well alone. However, if there are signs of abandonment or sickness rather than call the emergency services, please ring one of the below for advice or assistance.
This season The Green Blue is focussing it's work on appreciating wildlife and minimising disturbance from recreational watercraft. Look at our Topic in Focus page for some simple steps to help you start appreciating and getting the most out of wildlife watching.
More information about abandoned or sick animals and important things you can do to help Important facts from The Green Blue about our coastal and freshwater wildlife
This Bank Holiday 26th- 28th August will see the Inland Waterways Diamond Jubilee Festival take place in Beale Park on the Thames near Reading. As part of The Green Blue’s environmental awareness programme we shall be exhibiting at the Festival and encourage visitors to drop by our caravan to pick up a copy of our inland ‘How To…’ guide. Launched at this years Crick Boat Show the guide is packed with informative advice that is practical and positive in tone. It covers issues such as how to avoid fuel spills, wash, waste and recycling and cleaning and maintenance. Advice is split into 3 sections:
The Guide is sponsored by the BMF, RYA, Environment Agency, the Broads Authority, British Waterways, the Boat Safety Scheme and Marina Developments Ltd.
We shall also be holding a spot the difference and colouring competition (for children only!) encouraging the young to dispose of litter properly and behave responsibly on the water. All participants can take home their free pack of colouring pencils made from sustainable timber.
The Green Blue can be found on stand G47. Show opening times are 10am-6pm Saturday and Sunday and 10am-5pm Monday.
More details, directions and ticket information Request a copy of the How To guide Take our quiz to see how green you really are! 
The Green Blue is following the progress of Envision in the South West as they work with Mayflower Marina to reduce their energy and water use, ensure they are environmentally compliant and financially better off!
Envision is a not-for-profit environmental organisation working in the South West to offer SME's five days of one-to-one business support from a dedicated professional mentor.
Plymouth's Mayflower Marina is one of the first in the South West to sign up to Envision doing do because of rising utility costs and a desire to reduce its environmental impact. With the ever increasing cost of energy supplies and waste disposal, as well as "green tape" legislation, it would seem that this is a sensible step to take.
Read phase one of the project Visit Envision's web site to see how they could help you Download our information sheet giving other sources of advice to businesses Other Green Blue practical projects and case studies 
Two new solar powered passenger ferries have come into operation across the UK in July to join the growing number boats powered by the sun. They join the likes of Solar Heritage which currently runs trips in Chichester Harbour (pictured).
The Solarshuttle was launched on 18th July on Serpentine Lake in London's Hyde Park. The boat is thought to be the biggest of it's kind in the UK at an impressive 14.5 metres and is capable of carrying 42 passengers at 5mph between the north and south side of the water.
The two electric engines are powered by 27 curved glass solar panels and It's designers claim it is pollution free. When not in use and docked, any surplus electricity generated by the boat's solar panels will be fed back into the National Grid.
Earlier this week, another solar powered ferry to run between Loch Lomond and the remote Island of Inchcailloch was officially named on Tuesday. The vessel called Bata Greine, meaning boat of the sun has room for 12 passengers and can also take wheelchair users.
Deputy Environment Minister, Rhona Brankin said "National Parks are trying out new ideas and developing sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions to the challenges we face. The solar boat is just one of many examples."
Read our case study focussing on electric boats and biofuels Discover more about solar power from the The Electric Boat Association 
Higher than average temperatures are thought to be responsible for a sighting of 19 Giant ocean sunfish off the south western coast of cornwall. An aerial survey carried out by researchers from the University of Exeter, the Marine Conservation Society and Cornwall Wildlife Trust sighted the fish whose name refers to the their habit of lying at the sea surface on their side as if sunbathing.
The sunfish are the worlds largest bony fish, they can weigh more than two tonnes, reach lengths of 3 metres and produce the greatest number of eggs of any fish. They are generally a warm water species but in recent years sunfish have been recorded more frequently in UK waters during the summer and are thought to be an indication of the rising temperatures of UK seas.
Dr. Brendan Godley, senior lecturer at the University of Exter Cornwall Campus said "This sudden influx of of these beautiful, giant fish was a fantastic surprise, we only spotted the sunfish lying on their side at the surface so there may have been more below the waves. This is the first time we have spotted them during our surveys and we think they may have arrived here to take advantage of the jellyfish blooms as the summer sea temperature rise."
The same survey which was carried out the week before (20th July) also detected basking sharks, porpoises and jellyfish. Among other things, the surveys aim to better inform Cornwall's ever growing marine wildlife watching tourism industry. Recreational boat owners and users are also encouraged to report any sightings of jellyfish, basking sharks and turtles using their online reporting forms.
Take a course to get the most out of wildlife watching from your boat with the WiSe Scheme Report sightings of whales and dolphins to the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society Follow the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code Simple tips to appreciating wildlife while out on your boat 
A unique project to enable visitors and resident users of Salcombe harbour to take responsibility of their waste was launched on Tuesday 11th July. The Green Blue along with the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty partnered South Hams District Council in replacing it's floating skip with a pontoon-based recycling and waste facility to encourage boat users to recycle.
In order to use the new facilities, boat users are now asked to separate their waste on board before disposing of it. This is where The Green Blue has stepped in by providing a grant for the purchase of sets of dedicated, reusable recycling bags. Mooring holders and visiting yachtsmen to Salcombe will receive a free set of these bags to encourage them to use the new facilities.
Supplied as a set of three reusable woven nylon bags, they are large enough to be useful but small enough to stow away and store on board. Rob Wheeler, project manager at Salcombe Harbour Office commented “This is exactly what is required to kick-start our recycling initiative, we are keen to encourage people to use re-usable bags, further enhancing the sustainability of the whole project. Thanks to The Green Blue we can now distribute these special waste transfer bags free of charge this year”
In recent years it has become apparent that recycling waste is a responsible course to adopt and one that The Green Blue has been keen to encourage. A survey taken from visitors to The Green Blue stand at this years Dinghy Sailing Show showed that 72% of people would happily recycle rubbish if their club provided facilities to do so. It is hoped that this simple scheme will encourage people to recycle and protect the waters of this popular stretch of Devon’s coast.
(photo courtesy of Anthony Lofts)
South Hams District Council press release Visit Salcombe Harbour's website The Green Blue's Topic in Focus: Waste page 
With just days to go until the Volvo Youth Sailing ISAF World Championship officially opens at the Weymouth and Portland Sailing Academy (WPNSA), event organisers are looking forward to an environmentally friendly regatta thanks to a series of green initiatives put in place with the help of The Green Blue.
The event taking place between 12th - 21st July will see some 350 of the World's best young sailors from 64 nations take to the waters around Weymouth. The RYA are keen to promote the event as a green one by introducing a number of simple steps to reduce waste, encourage recycling and ensure any minor oil spills are cleaned up.
The Green Blue, Dorset County Council and Weymouth Borough Council will provide recycling bins to encourage people to sort and recycle their rubbish. To reduce the amount of waste produced, competitors and volunteers will be provided with a refillable water bottle which can be filled again and again from water coolers around the site courtsey of PHS Waterlogic.
In addition to this, all RIB's taking part in the event will carry spill kits. The Green Blue hopes that the initiatives piloted in this event have the potential be built upon and rolled out to other events and regattas across the country.
RYA Press release: Environmentally friendly Youth Worlds goes green More about the Volvo Youth Sailing ISAF World Championships 
It is well known that the disposal of sewage from boats on inland waterways is prohibited by law and navigation authorities require that sea toilets are sealed. However, on small craft (less than 15 passengers) on our coastal waters it is left to the individuals judgement (although do check local regulations or byelaws) and are often not used.
In order to assist and encourage recreational boaters in locating and using pump-out facilities within the UK, the Green Blue has produced a series of maps covering both inland and coastal areas. These are divided into regions and give both the location and contact details for each provider.
We hope that this information will help you to plan ahead and ensure that you are not ‘caught short’ with regard to emptying your holding tank.
Green Blue best practice advice about discharging of sewage 
Many people are unaware of just how much 'mega' marine wildlife exists in the waters around the UK. Our seas are home to the second largest fish in the world, the basking shark as well as sunfish pilot whales and leatherback turtles to name a few!
However, increased interest by operators in laying on wildlife watching trips is causing regulators to consider stronger measures to protect these mammals. Courses such as WiSe (Wildlife Safe) can train yachtsmen in how to handle their craft whilst in contact with animals as well as in species identification, life history and behaviour.
The Green Blue has teamed up with the WiSe Scheme and the Wildlife Trusts to offer one RYA member the chance to spend a week aboard a marine survey vessel, exploring and learning about some of the about some of the UK's most exciting marine wildlife. Working as one of the crew you will be learning how to spot and and observe creatures without disturbance, and also be making a valuable contribution towards understanding and preserving some of our most fascinating marine creatures.
Accommodation will be onboard Director of the Wildlife Trusts Basking Shark Project, Colin Speedie's Dufour 39 Yacht. Although you will be expected to muck in as one of the crew, the chance to see one of the largest marine mammals in the world will be worth it!
To enter the competition, please read the terms and conditions (you must be an RYA member) and answer the simple question below.
In the UK we have the world's second largest fish. What is it?
Send your answers on a postcard to:
RYA/WiSe Competition, RYA House, Ensign Way, Hamble, Southampton, SO31 4YA
The closing date is 14th July 2006
Terms and conditions of entry and details of the prize Read the Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code 
The Green Blue enjoyed a successful weekend at the Crick Boat Show, despite the weather, to launch the new How To... guide for inland waterway users. Ambassador to the project, Philippa Forrester, was there to lend her support to the guide and also host the Green Blue Quiz where the waterway press and show exhibitors battled it out to become 'green' champions! After a close competition, the press claimed victory although both teams contributed towards passing information to the show's visitors.
The guide aims to give advice and on reducing your environmental impact on the water and where to find more help and information about environmental best practice. It covers subjects such as waste, appreciating and spotting wildlife and using oil and fuel.
Along with the British Marine Federation and Royal Yachting Association, the guide received support from the Environment Agency, Broads Authority, British Waterways Marina Developments Ltd and Boat Safety Scheme. Head of Environment for BW, Paul Beckwith said "Our own initiatives range from our annual Wildlife Survey to management of our vessels, which are increasingly designed with the environment in mind. In supporting The Green Blue, we are renewing our message to boaters and the marine industry, both stakeholders in preserving our waterside habitats."
To receive your free copy of the guide please send an email to the link below.
Request your copy of the How To... guide for inland waterways Download A4 narrow boat posters or A4 motor cruiser posters to display at your club, marina or mooring 
Ever wondered what effect your antifouling has on sea life? Or whether using your sea toilet has any effect on water quality? Answers to questions like these are now available on the Green Blue’s searchable database.
To mark World Ocean Day (Thursday 8th June), we have published a comprehensive database of knowledge on the environmental impacts of boating. The database, the first of its kind, brings together over 550 scientific and regulatory papers which analyse the environmental effects of boating. We have also launched an initiative to encourage further studies into the environmental interactions of boating, where gaps in knowledge have been identified. A list of research topics available for post graduate students is on our web site and details of how to apply for a small grant.
The collation of such a large databank of research will provide essential knowledge for regulators, academics and marine organisations as to the real impacts of boating. It is hoped that this will assist regulators and planners when making vital and significant decisions on environmental matters which affect the marine leisure industry.
The database can be searched in a variety of ways, and is simple and efficient to use. Searches can be made by subject (e.g. antifouling or waste management), or by author, date or key word. Where available, the papers themselves can simply be downloaded.
More information about the launch of the database View the searchable database and try it for yourself! Research topics and grant application form 
TV Presenter Philippa Forrester will be attending the Crick Boat Show to launch The Green Blue’s new ‘How To… Guide’ for inland waterway users on Monday 29th May.
Little information exists to assist the inland boater with regard to reducing his or her environmental impact. The Green Blue’s ‘How To…’ Guide will remedy this. Informative yet practical and positive in tone, it covers issues such as how to avoid fuel spills, wash, waste and recycling and cleaning and maintenance. Advice is split into 3 sections:
The Guide is sponsored by the BMF, RYA, Environment Agency, the Broads Authority, British Waterways, the Boat Safety Scheme and Marina Developments Ltd. 25,000 copies of the ‘How To…’ Guide will initially be distributed through RYA and BMF’s extensive networks, including marinas, training centres and boat charter companies. With a commitment from British Waterways, the Environment Agency, the Broads Authority and Boat Safety Scheme to also distribute copies, the Guide could potentially reach up to half a million boaters who use our inland waterways.
Philippa, who became a Green Blue ambassador in January, has a vested interest in the campaign - not only does she have a degree in ecology and conservation, but spends much of her time producing wildlife documentaries, many of which are based in and around inland waters. Alongside her husband, Charlie Hamilton James, Philippa produced the BBC documentary 'My Halcyon River' and together they have produced 'On The Trail of Tarka', a BBC documentary to be shown later this year, which tracks down descendants of Tarka, probably the most famous otter in the UK.
As well as launching the Guide, Philippa will also present a special Green Blue Quiz, where marine press editors will compete against boat show exhibitors to see how green the really are…
More information about The Crick Boat Show 2006 Request your copy of the inland 'How To...' guide 
With increasing energy demands and fossil fuel prices rising, many companies and individuals are exploring alternative sources of energy. Colwick Park Outdoor Adventure Centre in Nottingham is a brand new building built to be self sufficient with regards to energy needs and water supply.
This was achieved through funding from many grants that are available now to help install solar, wind, photovoltaic and other alternative energy sources.
The centre is situated in a country park which is an important wildlife haven and so it was felt to be important that the centre was kept as environmentally friendly as possible. They were lucky enough to have access to a borehole and so the centre’s entire electricity and water supply is on site. This provides a great example of what can be achieved with the help of grant funding.
Colwick Park Outdoor Adventure Centre Case Study Colwick Park Outdoor Adventure Centre Web Site 
A boat hire company in the Norfolk Broads is the first company to be prosecuted by the Environment Agency under the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001.
The £9,500 fine comes after the company did not take action after Environment Agency Officers warned their oil storage did not comply with regulations and subsequently caused a pollution incident.
Although the regulations have been fully operational since September 2005, the Environment Agency recognises there are still some sites where oil storage will not meet the requirements. Where this is brought to their attention advice is given to site owners of what they need to do to comply with regulation and prevent pollution incidents occurring. It is the responsibility of businesses and individuals to ensure they are compliant and failure to carry out the work can result in prosecutions such as that in the Norfolk Broads.
The first Green Blue publication which is a joint Environment Agency, British Marine Federation and Royal Yachting Association publication is the Environmental Code of Practice. This important document highlights the environmental legislation that impacts the marine industry and provides examples and advice on how to comply with these. The chapter on Managing oils, fuels and hazardous materials includes guidelines to minimise the risk of sites causing pollution.
Alternatively, visit the Trade Talk pages of the Green Blue website for a summary of the regulations and advice about what should be done in the event of an oil spill.
Download your copy of the Environmental Code of Practice Oil Storage Regulations in England Scotland's New Regulations for Oil Storage 
Have you ever stopped to think what happens to your boat when it finally reaches the end of its useful life? Modern GRP and plastic hulled boats can often prove to be a complete headache to dispose of and may sit languishing in landfill for years to come.
However, a number of companies producing dinghies, kayaks and canoes have come up with a solution. By manufacturing polyethylene boats by rotomoulding, old hulls and waste products can be collected, ground down and refined back into the polyethylene polymer ready to be used again.
The Green Blue has visited a couple of these companies; Palm Equipment in Somerset and Rototek (Teksport) in Newark to see this working first hand. Read more about the recycling and reusing process and find details about recycling your old plastic dinghy in our case study.
Recycling and reusing waste in canoe, kayak and dinghy manufacturing Palm Equipment Ltd Dagger Europe Teksport Rototek Ltd 
Do you run a marine business or sailing club in the Chichester area? Are you concerned about the impact you may be having on the marine environment? Do you want to find out what environmental legislation affects your company and what you can do to comply with it?
If so, The Green Blue along with Chichester Harbour Conservancy, the Environment Agency and Visit Chichester invites you to attend their seminar to promote awareness of the Environmental Code of Practice. This was written in partnership between the BMF, RYA and Environment Agency and the event aims to offer advice and listen to the issues and opinions of those working in the recreational marine sector regarding environmental best practice.
Date / time: 10am - 2pm, Wednesday 10th May 2006
Venue: Chichester Yacht Club
The agenda includes an introduction from the Chairman of BMF Southern Region and case studies from local companies and can be downloaded here
Other benefits of raising environmental awareness include limiting exposure to prosecution and fines (risk management), opportunities for organisations to save money by implementing best practice and improving market position by aligning themselves with the aims of the AONB status and ‘green tourism’.
The Green Blue hopes to take these regional training events around the country over the coming year and is on the lookout for companies who have successfully implemented an environmental management system or introduced ‘green’ practices to share their experience and knowledge. If you think you may be able to host an event for us, we would also be interested to hear from you, please contact katherine.boor@thegreenblue.org.uk
To book your place at Chichester on May 10th please email Alison Beckett allie@conservancy.co.uk
Environmental Code of Practice Chichester Harbour Conservancy Environment Agency
The Green Blue had a fantastic weekend at the RYA Dinghy Sailing Show at Alexandra Palace this year. Displaying as part of the RYA stand staff were kept busy talking to numerous visitors about the project, answering their questions and offering advice about how to keep their sailing and sailing clubs green.
The focus was on waste reduction and recycling with ‘How degrading’ posters available to take away to display at sailing centres and Ink Again bags to recycle ink jet cartridges. Following the success of the guess the number of cans competition at the London Boat Show, a similar competition was held to win one of 10 large can crushers suitable for clubs and training centres promoting recycling as a way to raise money for sailing clubs. One lucky winner was William Jones shown collecting his prize from the stand (left).
Find out more about how your club, training centre, marina or company can make money by recycling your empty cans by following the links below.
Click here to request a poster or Ink Again recycling bag (£1 of which goes towards the work of The Green Blue) Cash for Cans UK Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organisation 
Course dates for charter companies about responsible wildlife watching, register online to receive free automatic updates about environmental legislation affecting your business and learn more about the implications of a new government strategy to encourage businesses to recycle.
If you run a charter company operating in Cornwall, the Isle of Man, Wales, East Scotland or if you are interested in offering specialized wildlife watching trips to your customers, you might want to consider wildlife awareness training to ensure that you fully understand the implications of your actions on the local environment. The WISE Scheme is extremely affordable (£50 per person) and WISE accreditation demonstrates to your customers that they can view marine life responsibly from on board your vessels. Forthcoming dates are:
16th or 21st March Falmouth Marine School
18th March Isle of Man
23rd March Nairn Sailing School, nr Inverness
29th March Pembroke Dock
Courses in South, West and North Wales to be announced shortly.
To book, visit: www.wisescheme.org/
Waste disposal is a subject for consideration by all businesses and now maybe even more so after the Government has announced proposals to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. To encourage recycling rather than disposing of waste at landfill they propose to see a gradual increase in landfill tax and make producers responsible for end of life products.
If you are a marina operator or if you run a busy club or training centre there may be free help available to start a recycling scheme in your organisation. Eco Recycling Solutions can provide recycling bins known as the SilverBoxTM for high traffic public areas and allows waste separation through its shape specific openings. These are installed, cleaned and maintained free of charge by SilverBoxTM and advertising panels on the bins allow companies to promote products and services.
UKSA and SP Systems on the Isle of Wight present useful ideas about implementing recycling within two very different marine businesses and prove that very often recycling and re-using waste can actually save money. The Green Blue can also offer advice about implementing a waste reduction; re-use and recycling strategy, in fact, to get you started take a look at our 5 top tips.
Businesses targeted in new waste strategy
Recreational marine businesses often fall into the small and medium-sized enterprise category and understanding the huge amount of environmental legislation around and identifying what is relevant to them can often be a daunting complex task.
NetRegs, the free resource provided by the Environment Agency to help SME’s understand environmental law, legislation how it can affect them and offering advice and guidelines on best practice is now making the job of keeping up-to-date with regulations even easier. By registering on their web site, companies can subscribe to receive an electronic alert when newsletters or updates relevant to them are released. This makes the job of remaining environmentally compliant even easier.
Register with NetRegs to receive free updates
The BMF and RYA in partnership with the Environment Agency have produced the Environmental Code of Practice aimed at providing good practice advice and outlining the legal framework with particular reference to BMF members and RYA affiliated clubs and training centres. It also identifies the key issues associated with marine businesses and offers practical solutions to dealing with them.
Download your free copy of the Environmental Code of Practice
This year the Green Blue will be exhibiting at the Dinghy Sailing Show which takes place on 4-5th March at Alexander Palace, London. It features over 200 exhibitors and over 100 classes of dinghy and is set to be the best ever.
Come and visit us on the RYA stand and learn how to keep your dinghy sailing green and ways you can help your club save resources and watch its waste. Why not also guess the number of crushed cans in the box and enter our competition to win one of 10 can crushers for your club. Crushing cans before disposing of them significantly saves space and encourages them to be recycled; recycling one aluminum can save up to 95% of the energy needed to make it from raw materials.
Staff will also be on hand for free advice and to answer any questions you may have.
More information about the dinghy sailing show 5 simple steps for clubs and training centres to start reducing, recycling and reusing their waste 
Why not book this years holiday in the Norfolk Broads and support the growing number of companies pioneering bio diesel and electric technology to power their boats.
It is well publicised that use of fossil fuels increases greenhouse gas emissions and that they are an unsustainable resource. The development of alternative cleaner, renewable fuel sources for transport is therefore essential supported by the EU announcing this month its strategy for boosting biofuel production.
Bio diesel seems an ideal substitute to diesel as engines require no conversion to run on 100% bio diesel and since it contains no sulphur, metals or crude oil residues the emissions are less harmful to the environment.
Eight Norfolk Broads companies have been leading the way with the help of the Broads Authority and Sustainable Development Fund in trailing bio diesel in their holiday hire boats. This is the largest trial of its type to take place in the country and is due to the growing interest and concern from locals and visitors in protecting this unique natural environment.
So when thinking of booking your next boating holiday, consider hiring a bio diesel boat to protect the natural environment you enjoy.
The Green Blue have produced a case study of bio diesel and electric powered boats in the Norfolk Broads which also lists the companies participating in the trial
Bio diesel and Electric Boats - Green Fuel on Inland Waterways Bio diesel fact sheet and further advice 
TV presenter and producer Philippa Forrester announced her support for the Green Blue at the London Boat Show and hosted a fun and informative quiz to bring the show to an end.
Teams of marine press and boat show exhibitors battled against each other to try to win the coveted title of Green Blue Quiz Champions! A series of multi-choice questions were asked and teams attempted to identify environmentally friendly boating products. Questions ranged from how to dispose of out of date flares to giving the correct minimum distance form shore holding tanks should be pumped out.
After an entertaining and hard fought contest, the marine press editors finally triumphed.
Philippa has become an Ambassador for the Green Blue fo
