Even though a boat insurance policy will provide protection against wreckage removal, fuel spillage, etc., there are several steps that can be taken to act more earth-friendly.
Below are nine tips to minimize the impact on the environment when boating:
1 – Bilge
Keep the bilge clean and free of oily water. Avoid pumping the dirty or oily water overboard. Alternatively, use absorbent petroleum products like bilge pillows or similar to help with soaking up the oil while at the same time repelling water. Plus, ask the boat yard or marine if a service for bilge pump-out is available.
2 – Chart course
Before setting off make sure to carefully chart the course to avoid issues with wasting fuel or to go in the direction of sensitive sea habitats.
3 – Clean
Use safe and environmentally safe methods to wash down the boat and equipment. Limit the use of toxic detergent. A wide range of boat cleaning products is environmentally responsible and easy to purchase in-store or online.
Ensure all debris and mud are cleaned from the boat and related equipment (anchors, livewell, propeller, trailer, dinghy, life raft, etc.) to minimize the chance of exotic species spreading which can result in degradation and habitat alteration.
4 – Close vent
Close the vent on the portable gas tank when in storage or when the actual motor isn’t in active use.
5 – Fuel tanks
Avoid spillage by filling fuel tanks while still on shore. Try to avoid refilling when on board the boat. Filling the tanks on shore is certain to help with minimizing the amount split in the process. Plus, only fill the fuel tanks to the recommended limit. Fuel can easily expand in warm climates and extra fuel will soon start to flow out the vent lines.
6 – Routine maintenance
Ensure routine maintenance is completed on a regular basis.
7 – Sewage regulations
Stick to the federal and local guidelines that relate to the disposal of sewage. Avoid pumping raw sewage into the open water. Any boat without a pre-installed toilet should rely on a portable unit (port-a-potty or similar). Ensure the port-a-potty is emptied in a predetermined disposal site or pump-out station. A holding tank on board the boat can be useful in certain situations. Minimize the use of disinfectants after cleanup because they are likely to contain toxic chemicals.
8 – Spill kit
Have on board a purpose-made spill kit to help with salvaging any unfortunate issues with wasted oil or similar liquids. Plus, a supply of rags to absorb oil or fuel spillage can help. A minor spillage of oil can result in significant issues in the water so take the appropriate action to avoid these problems. Also, report any sighting of pollution to the local authorities when out on the water.
9 – Trash
Make sure the build up of trash is kept stowed away and taken home. This should include food waste, cigarettes, fishing line, etc. Recycling the waste where possible can also benefit the environment. Plus, batteries or similar items should be disposed of in the correct manner.