5 Ways of Becoming a More Sustainable Sea Traveler
Sailing boating ocean sports, Photo by Artem Verbo
Sustainability is essential in all aspects of life, including sea travel. If you want to continue enjoying the many benefits that sailing and cruising have to offer, you need to do your part to protect the oceans and their inhabitants. Here are five ways to become a more sustainable sea traveler.
1. Use Eco-Friendly Products
Eco-friendly products include everything from the soap you use to wash your hands onboard to the sunscreen you wear while enjoying time on deck. Look for products that are biodegradable and free of harmful chemicals. Not only will this help protect the environment, but it will also improve your health. Take some time to research and find the ones that work best for you.
2. Be Mindful of Your Energy Use
Your energy use onboard can have a big impact on the environment. Be mindful of how much electricity you use and conserve where possible. Investing in solar panels for your boat is easy to save energy. This will help you run your electronics and appliances without relying on fossil fuels. If you are not in a position to install solar panels, there are still ways you can be more energy-efficient. Use LED lights onboard as they use less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs.
3. Educate Yourself Regarding Sustainable Sea Travel
Sustainable sea travel starts with education. The more you know about the ocean's issues, the more likely you will make sustainable travel choices. Share your knowledge with others and encourage them to do their part to protect the environment. Get involved in ocean conservation efforts in your area, volunteer for beach cleanups, or join an organization working to protect the oceans.
However, traveling sustainably by sea doesn't have to mean giving up luxury. Companies like Stryker T-Tops offer boat T-Tops that provide the same shade and protection from the sun as you would find on a yacht. They also come in various styles to suit any taste and can be custom-fit to your boat. Most T-Tops are made with durable, weather-resistant materials, making them a smart investment for any boat owner who wants to enjoy many years of worry-free boating.
4. Responsible Wastewater Disposal
All wastewater onboard must be treated before it is released into the ocean, including sewage, greywater, and bilge water. There are several ways to treat wastewater, but a marine sanitation device (MSD) is one of the most effective methods. MSDs use a variety of treatment processes to cleanse the water before it is discharged. Be sure to follow all local and national regulations regarding wastewater disposal.
5. Cut Back On Single-Use Plastics
One of the biggest threats to the oceans is plastic pollution. Every year, millions of tons of plastic end up in the ocean, causing harm to marine life and polluting the water. Bring reusable bags to the grocery store to avoid using plastic bags. Use a reusable water bottle instead of buying bottled water, and say no to straws when ordering drinks onboard.
There are many ways to make your next sea voyage more sustainable. By following the tips above, you can help to protect the environment and ensure that future generations can enjoy the oceans for years to come.
Sea Going Green is a sustainable tourism consultancy that works with marine and coastal tourism operators to lower their environmental footprint including their plastic usage and carbon emissions.
Curious about what sustainability could do for you? Get in touch.