The Georgia Strait Alliance: Clean Marine BC

The Georgia Strait Alliance is using its $11,000 grant from the Victoria Foundation to expand its Clean Marine B.C. program in the Capital Regional District, supporting area marinas to achieve eco-certification. Certification is based on environmental best practices including using environmentally-friendly marine products and construction, developing waste management and recycling strategies, and optimizing energy and water conservation.

“Benefits include a cleaner marine environment, a more environmentally conscious boating community, increased business for participating marinas, cost savings and improved community values in the CRD and beyond,” said Clean Marine program coordinator Michelle Young.

Certification entails a self-assessment conducted by the marinas using an environmental best practices checklist, followed by an independent audit. Successful achievement of the standards results in the presentation of a certificate and a Clean Marine flag that features up to five anchors to indicate the marina’s level of eco compliance. The eco-certification is valid for three years.

The Georgia Strait Alliance is also publishing a green boating tips sheet to highlight how the boating community can reduce its environmental footprint. See www.GeorgiaStrait.org for more information.