OCEAN HEALTH IS OUR HEALTH
THE PROBLEM
Ocean plastic is also a mounting threat to Earth, due to its pervasive environmental impact. The sheer volume of plastic waste entering the oceans annually poses a significant challenge. As plastics break down into smaller particles through processes like photodegradation, they become microplastics, infiltrating marine ecosystems and affecting marine life. These minute particles are ingested by aquatic organisms, leading to a cascade of detrimental effects on the food chain. Beyond the immediate harm to marine life, ocean plastics contribute to broader ecological imbalances. Chemicals leaching from plastics can contaminate seawater, posing risks to both marine and human health. Additionally, the accumulation of plastic debris in oceans exacerbates habitat degradation and disrupts the delicate balance of marine ecosystems. The economic repercussions are substantial, impacting industries such as fishing and tourism. Addressing the growing threat of ocean plastic requires concerted global efforts to reduce plastic consumption, improve waste management practices, and promote the development of sustainable alternatives. Without decisive action, the consequences of unchecked plastic pollution in our oceans will continue to escalate, jeopardizing the health of our planet and its interconnected ecosystems.
Promoting sustainability and addressing climate change within the sailing community can have a meaningful impact. I look to use my sailing campaign as a platform to promote simple messages and practices, to make a positive impact on sustainability, and contribute to the fight against climate change and ocean plastic.
Humans and society must work harder to be sustainable as everything we do in day to day life has a direct link with the ocean. As humans and in society we feed off the ocean and it is essential for life on this planet, WE MUST PROTECT IT!
Sustainability is crucial in the marine industry as our work, sport and passion is based around the Ocean. Managing resources and waste efficiently can significantly impact both the environment and your performance.
MY COMMITMENT
Though out my sailing career and campaigns I aim to promote and implement sustainable and eco friendly practices specifically tailored to the marine sector, wether it’s small dinghy sailing at your local club or larger sailing events in keelboats and even super yachts! Sustainability is crucial in sailing, where managing resources and waste efficiently can not only significantly impact our oceans health and the environment but can possibly improve your performance.
Below are my highest impacting actions I will promote and implement throughout my sailing career to be more sustainable within sailing in order to protect our Oceans.
TAKING ACTION
**Efficient Waste Management**
- Waste Segregation: Separate waste into recyclables, compostables, and non-recyclables. This makes it easier to manage and dispose of waste properly once you reach shore.
- Compact Waste: Compress waste to reduce its volume, and using creative techniques to store This can help you store waste more efficiently on board until you can dispose of it properly.
**Choosing Sustainable Products**
- Eco-friendly Supplies: Using eco-friendly cleaning products and biodegradable soaps to minimize water pollution.
- Sustainable Food Choices: Choosing sustainably sourced and packaged foods. Opting for local, organic, and non-GMO products when possible.
**Educational and Outreach Efforts**
- Awareness: Using my sailing platform as a professional sailor to raise awareness about marine pollution and sustainability. Sharing my practices and tips with other sailors and the public, creating a healthier future for people who love and care for the ocean.
- Collaborate: Partnering with environmental organisations to promote ocean health and sustainable sailing practices and keeping up with new sustainable technologies and practices in sailing.
**Reduce Waste at the Source**
- Minimal Packaging: Choosing products with minimal or eco friendly packaging for sailing races or passages. Opting for bulk items and refillable/reusable containers to reduce the amount of waste.
- Reusable Items: Using reusable water bottles, food containers, and utensils to cut down on single-use plastics. The less we use, the less end up in the ocean.
- Eco-friendly Products: Selecting biodegradable or recyclable products, such as compostable bags and packaging.