Published on: 18 November 2021
The Green Blue and the Final Straw Foundation have joined forces to launch a Single-Use Plastic Free Accreditation, aimed at inland and marine clubs, training centres and boating businesses. The new standard will highlight the responsible and innovative products and practices by organisations in the recreational boating industry.
There are three levels of certification for organisations to rise through: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Each level is determined by the organisation’s dedication to eliminating single-use plastic items from their activities. Suggestions can include, the removal of plastic cutlery, sustainable toilet rolls and eco-friendly cleaning products.
Depending on which level a club, training centre or business achieves, they will then be able to promote their certification with the accreditation’s logo, which they can add to their business credentials. A list of all the participating clubs and centres achieving a certification will also be added to both environmental ambassador websites, making it easier for recreational boaters to make informed decisions when choosing their next training water.
Commenting on the launch of the Accreditation, Kate Fortnam, The Green Blue Campaign Manager, said: “The launch of the Single-Use Plastic Free Accreditation is all about working with the recreational boating community and showcasing the fantastic work that many clubs, centres and boating businesses are already implementing, whilst also encouraging others that may be interested but maybe aren’t yet sure how to proceed.
“Launching the accreditation at the Southampton International Boat Show provided a great opportunity to raise awareness to clubs, centres, boating businesses, and individuals of the alternative boating practices available, and how they can play a role in increasing sustainable boating behaviours.”
Clubs and centres that are keen to reduce their single-use plastic footprint can find the full Single-Use Plastic Free Accreditation criteria and guidance by visiting: finalstrawcertified.org
