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TopTip2020 #64 Sustainable Sailing
by Alice Lucy, GBR
Alice Lucy is the Sustainability Officer on the UK Class' Committee and helps keep our sailors and host Clubs well advised on how we can better limit any impact of our RS Aero sailing on the environment. Some things are more important than an extra ounce of boat speed, this is a team effort and together we can all make a difference. Alice identifies a few of the main issues to consider;
' Sustainable SailingHosing down boat, trolleys & wheels
This is to remove harmful invasive species from boats and equipment before travelling back to home clubs, which is crucial in stopping the spread of invasive species. This can be done by using the 'Check Clean Dry' method. First start by checking the boats, equipment and clothing you have been using after leaving the water for mud, aquatic animals or plant material. If you do find anything then remove it and leave it at the site. Then, clean everything thoroughly as soon as you can, paying the most attention to ropes, hulls, trolleys and areas which are damp and hard to access. Finally, dry by draining water from every part of your boat and trailer before leaving the site. Dry everything for as long as possible before using elsewhere as some invasive plants and animals can survive for two weeks in damp conditions.
Not leaving trolleys in the water after launching
This is important to do as it increases the likelihood of invasive species attaching to the trolley, which is often missed when hosing down at the end of a session. Keeping trolleys out of the water also clears space for others to launch and land while also protecting the trolleys, especially in saltwater (which damages the trolleys in the long term).
Lift share
Once we are safely allowed to travel in one another’s vehicles again, sharing lifts to clubs and competitions allows for lower carbon emissions and lowers the carbon footprint that you are creating.
Reusable Bottles and single use plastic
Instead of using single use plastic, all sailors should be taking reusable bottles on the water with them. Especially as all new RS Aeros come with a reusable bottle for the RS Aeros integral bottle holder. Please try to reduce the amount of all single use plastics used, but if you must take them on the water then remember to dispose of them correctly by bringing them back ashore to bin or recycle if possible. Simply remembering to do this allows venues, beaches and boat parks to remain litter free. '
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10/06/2020 00:40:00
Peter Barton
Posts: 4664
