If you’re a boat owner or potential owner, you likely spend a lot of time on or by the water. If you like to spend time by the water, it’s important that you know how to take care of the environment around you.
World Oceans Day is celebrated each year on June 8 and while the oceans should be celebrated everyday, this is a particularly special day that brings awareness to the world around us. The day, which has been recognized since 2008, reminds everyone why we need to care about the ocean around us, and this day holds special meaning for those of us who work in the marine industry. Without the ocean, there would be no boating. Here’s how you can help the planet on World Oceans Day, courtesy of Blue Ocean Network.
Be Mindful of Energy Consumption
It’s important to be mindful of climate change and the harmful effects it has on our oceans. That means you, as a consumer, need to be careful about the way you use energy. Be conscious of the energy you use at home and work. If you can, leave your car at home and commute. Become a friend of public transportation or riding a bicycle. And always turn lights off after you’re done using them.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Recycle paper and plastic. Reusing these things helps keep the environment clean. Recycling paper helps decrease the number of trees that need to be cut down, and trees help prevent soil erosion and runoff. Another thing that needs to be looked out for is plastic. By using fewer plastic products, we’re putting less plastic into the ocean. Plastics often end up as devastating ocean debris that has a powerfully negative effect on the environment. To limit your impact, you can do little things such as using a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic ones. Avoiding plastic bags is another way to help protect the environment.
Eat Seafood Smart
Demand, loss of habitat, and unsustainable fishing practices have globally depleted the fish population. When eating seafood, make sure you pick something healthy and sustainable. But if you can, don’t eat seafood at all.
Travel Responsibly
Responsible boating is a great way to give back to the environment. Practice safe kayaking, boating, and other recreational water activities. These things should be a given, and will help keep your insurance premiums low. Don’t throw things overboard, and be aware of the marine life around you. If you can, use an eco-friendly hotel or resort when travelling. Always choose the most eco-friendly option possible.
Keep Your Beach Clean
One of the biggest things that needs to be done is keep the beaches clean. Keeping your beach clean is the most essential way to ensure that marine life thrives and boating activities can continue. If you’re a marina operator, this one’s also for you. Keep your marina free of runoff and debris, and enforce these standards in your marina patrons as well.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (800) 992-4443 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
