South Africa is a great destination for boaters from all around the world. The country boasts a stunning coastline of a unique ecosystem, tranquil rivers and lakes, and lush scenery to heighten your boating experience. While we enjoy the vivid scenery South Africa has to offer, we also must be mindful of protecting the natural beauty. In this article, let’s understand how you can practice eco-friendly boating in South Africa and preserve the environment.
Eco-Friendly Boating in South Africa: why is it important?
With rapid population growth and technological advancements, the world has been facing severe problems such as global warming. This is because of pollution, waste, deforestation, and the destruction of ecosystems for several reasons, among many others.
With global warming and its effects at our doorstep, raising awareness and practising mindfulness to preserve ecosystems has become the number one concern. It has been becoming increasingly important to care about our environment; to care about the natural beauty that thrives within South Africa so that not only our future generations may be able to enjoy our natural heritage but also help preserve our ecosystems, thus helping to mitigate the adverse effects of global warming.
So, how can you practice eco-friendly boating in South Africa?
Practicing Eco-Friendly Boating in South Africa
Practice Responsible Waste Management
It is not unusual for boaters to pack food for lunch or beverages to chill with their friends or family. However, some of them just consider throwing trash overboard when we are done. One of the most straightforward ways to protect our waters and their ecosystems is by practising mindful waste management. Never throw trash, including plastic, food waste, or fishing gear, overboard. Marine debris, especially plastic pollution, is extremely hazardous to wildlife and also pollutes the water.
It is better to use reusable containers, water bottles, and bags to minimise plastic waste. If you must discard trash, make sure you carry a trash bag instead of straight up throwing it into open waters. Always carry a few trash bags onboard, store trash in them, seal them, and then dispose of trash properly after you go back on the land.
Use Eco-Friendly Products
The chemicals in traditional cleaning products, fuels, and antifouling paints can be harmful to marine life. Choose biodegradable cleaning supplies, and if possible, use non-toxic antifouling paints on your boat’s hull. Additionally, use fuel additives that reduce emissions and choose bio-based or environmentally friendly lubricants.
We understand that eco-friendly cleaners and antifouling paints could be expensive. In such cases, we highly advise washing and maintaining your boat and land whenever possible.
3. Avoid Sensitive Areas
South Africa is home to numerous marine protected areas (MPAs) and sensitive habitats, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. Avoid anchoring in these areas as it can damage the delicate ecosystems. When navigating, stay within marked channels to avoid disturbing wildlife and damaging underwater habitats.
Familiarise yourself with these MPAs here.
4. Mind Your Fuel and Emissions
Running a boat can contribute to air and water pollution through fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Regularly maintaining your boat’s engine can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Additionally, avoid idling the engine unnecessarily and travel at lower speeds when possible to conserve fuel.
Consider switching to a four-stroke engine, which is more fuel-efficient and emits fewer pollutants compared to a two-stroke engine.
5. Educate Yourself and Others
As mentioned earlier, environmental mindfulness starts with awareness. Stay informed about the environmental challenges facing South Africa’s marine ecosystems and how boating activities can impact them. If you do not understand how to educate yourself, the Marine Protected Areas website would be a good starting point for you.
Conclusion
Boating in South Africa’s beautiful waters is a privilege that comes with a responsibility to protect and preserve the environment. By adopting eco-friendly boating practices, staying informed, and respecting the natural world, you can positively contribute to South Africa’s environment.
Courses like Skipper’s License Courses or RYA Powerboat Courses will also briefly cover these topics to instil a sense of responsibility amongst our learners. If you are interested in undertaking the skipper courses to obtain a license, Sail and Power SA can help you out. For more information, we highly recommend you visit the website or contact us today.