Environmental Key Messages
NMMA Experts:
John McKnight, Director, Environmental and Safety Compliance
“Engine-less” Boating
With rising gas prices and the environment top of mind for today’s consumer, boaters are using their boats in different ways than in years past.
- Boaters are considering ways to reduce fuel consumption while on the water, including reducing cruising speed, tuning the engine and taking shorter trips.
- Unlike driving a car, a boat’s engine is often idle or turned off while anchoring, floating or at the dock (all three of which are some of boaters’ favourite on-the-water activities).
- Boaters are beginning to buy engines that better match their boats. If engines have to be run at near or open throttle most of the time, it’s too small for the boat and its load and fuel consumption and emissions will exceed normal standards.
Marine Engines Go Green
Boaters and anglers are the original conservationists – they are the one’s experiencing our nation’s waterways first hand.
- Marine engine manufacturers have invested billions of dollars to develop cleaner, more efficient engines – direct fuel injected (DFI) two-stroke engine technology and four-stroke engines and more recently catalyst and onboard emissions diagnostic systems for stern drive and inboard engines.
- When the EPA announced new regulations in the mid-1990’s for boat engines to reduce emissions, recreational boat engine manufacturers responded by developing Direct Fuel Injected (DFI) two stroke engines and four stroke engines similar to the ones that power many cars. This was no small feat, and required the development of new, complex technologies. These new engines reduce emissions by 75%- 90% and increased fuel efficiency by more than 40%.
- Fuel efficiency demonstrations have shown that today’s marine outboard engines are far superior in terms of fuel efficiency, emissions and noise. Marine outboard engines today are 38% more fuel efficient than 20 years ago
- The first catalyzed marine engine was unveiled in July 2006 and garnered awards from the EPA and U.S. Coast Guard for its reduced emissions and improved safety. This was no small feat, as the technology had to be created and perfected to allow this engine to withstand the harsh saltwater environment.
- Recreational boat and engine manufacturers are working to make the fuel boaters use cleaner with fuel additives to improve fuel economy and performance while also reducing smoke and emissions. To make it easier on boaters these manufacturers partner with Marinas to pre-blend these products.
New Green Developments
- Marine generator manufacturers have also made significant investments to develop and market products that limit carbon monoxide emissions – in some instances by 99% – garnering several honours for their efforts. Manufacturers also offer marine exhaust mufflers and catalyst systems to protect boaters and our waters by removing hydrocarbons from generator exhaust.
- Boat builders and manufacturers have begun constructing environmentally friendly boat building shops, using green engineering to be energy efficient in every practical way to achieve the latest cutting edge composite construction technology. Such buildings will also incorporate waste water collection systems, pumping it to engineered wetlands where the water will be treated naturally before being discharged.
Boating Accessories Go ‘Green’
Environmentally-Friendly Cleaning Products
- Many marine cleaning products developed today demonstrate a commitment to clean water.
- Companies have developed non-toxic based biodegradable boat soaps, which have a minimal impact on the aquatic environment. We’ve also seen the introduction of colour safe, oxygen release gels and cleansers that remove spots off of boats without using bleach or other hazardous materials.
- “Green” products have become an increasingly large, growing segment of the market. Cleaners that are more organic in their bases – like orange, vinegar, and baking soda based products – and products that are biodegradable and non-toxic. These products are advertised to work just as well – if not better – than traditionally used chemical based cleaners. As an industry there has been much research and development in developing new technology to reduce marine growth on boat hull bottoms. New non metal based products are being tested and introduced and the industry expects that we will see significant advances in this area in the future.
- Being a responsible, “green” boater also means taking care of your hull with proper cleaning and maintenance to prevent hard marine growth like barnacles that slow a boat down and impact fuel efficiency. Many manufactures are developing more environmentally-friendly paint strippers using biodegradable products that remove antifouling paint without the use of traditional toxic chemicals.
- Today’s clean marinas are also doing their part, with boatyard areas that are environmentally responsible.
Environmentally-Friendly Marine Aftermarket Accessories
- Innovative companies in our industry have developed ways to extend the life of batteries in harsh marine environments. Some products are designed to reduce premature battery failure caused by periods of inactivity. These systems utilize the power of the battery and return it as a surge or pulse. These products can also revive many older batteries back to their original state.
- Even portable handheld horns are going environmentally friendly through environmentally-friendly gas use, or even through chemical-free horns that use air. When the horn is empty, you use a simple bicycle pump to recharge the horn without the use of batteries or disposable metal containers.
Top Tips for Greener Boating:
*Direct consumers to www.DiscoverBoating.ca/green for more green boating resources.
- CLEAN SAFELY
- When choosing cleaning products, look for the EcoLogoM label which is a registered mark of Environment Canada. These products have been assessed for their environmental impacts across their entire life cycle and are considered to be the "best in class". For more information about EcoLogoM visit the Environmental Choice Program (link to www.ecologo.org) website. There are a wide array of products available now and you can be sure that those products that carry eco-labelling have minimal environmental impact and are safer for you and your family.
- Be sure when painting your boat to use legal bottom paints and biodegradable cleaning agents and ensure that no paint or cleansers enter the water.
- MAINTAIN PROPER EQUIPMENT
- Be sure that your engine reaches its designed wide-open-throttle RPM by choosing a prop with the right pitch. Adjustable-pitch propellers and modular props help to keep your boat running efficiently and ultimately will help to reduce fuel consumption. Make sure your boat, engine and propeller blades are in good condition to avoid wasting fuel and minimizing the chances of any oil, gasoline or other hazardous materials entering the water.
- RECYCLE YOUR WASTE
- Properly dispose of paints, batteries, antifreeze, cleaning products, oil and other hazardous wastes at a waste collection facility when you return to land. 12V batteries are among the most recycled products in the world. Some marine accessories stores even offer a credit on a new battery when you return your used one. Never discharge your sewage when you are near the shore. Check local rules and regulations for specific restrictions. Nearby pump-out stations and shore-side facilities are available for proper waste disposal.
- MAINTAIN A CLEAN BILGE
- Consider a bioremediation product such as BIO-SOK to convert hydrocarbons into safe compounds.
- PREVENT FUEL SPILLS
- Use or install a device to prevent overboard discharges from your tank vent. Such products will give you a warning and work to prevent spills when your tank is reaching its fuel capacity. Always fill your fuel tank slowly and only fill to about 90% capacity of the tank. Fuel naturally expands as the temperature rises and leaving a bit of space at the top of your fuel tank will help to prevent fuel from overflowing when its warmer outside.
- CHART YOUR COURSE
- Study your navigation charts and get to know the waterways so that you are familiar with the existing marine environment. You’ll be able to prevent boat propellers from potentially damaging habitats or injuring marine life, as well as consuming less fuel if you take a bit of time to plan your trip in advance and thereby avoid confusion and misdirection. Take advantage of the autopilot feature if you have it, as it can maintain a longer, continuous attention span and even steer better than some captains!
- RECYCLE YOUR MONOFILAMENT FISHING LINE
- Protect marine life by properly disposing of monofilament fishing line at nearby marine accessories stores and shore side recycling locations.
- STOW YOUR TRASH
- Keep your trash onboard and never throw cigarette butts, fishing line, or any other garbage into the ocean. Take advantage of shore-side facilities to recycle plastic, glass, metal and paper. Recycle your winter storage shrink-wrap at local marinas, dealers and suppliers.
NMMA Experts:
John McKnight, Director, Environmental and Safety Compliance
“Engine-less” Boating
With rising gas prices and the environment top of mind for today’s consumer, boaters are using their boats in different ways than in years past.
- Boaters are considering ways to reduce fuel consumption while on the water, including reducing cruising speed, tuning the engine and taking shorter trips.
- Unlike driving a car, a boat’s engine is often idle or turned off while anchoring, floating or at the dock (all three of which are some of boaters’ favourite on-the-water activities).
- Boaters are beginning to buy engines that better match their boats. If engines have to be run at near or open throttle most of the time, it’s too small for the boat and its load and fuel consumption and emissions will exceed normal standards.
Marine Engines Go Green
Boaters and anglers are the original conservationists – they are the one’s experiencing our nation’s waterways first hand.
- Marine engine manufacturers have invested billions of dollars to develop cleaner, more efficient engines – direct fuel injected (DFI) two-stroke engine technology and four-stroke engines and more recently catalyst and onboard emissions diagnostic systems for stern drive and inboard engines.
- When the EPA announced new regulations in the mid-1990’s for boat engines to reduce emissions, recreational boat engine manufacturers responded by developing Direct Fuel Injected (DFI) two stroke engines and four stroke engines similar to the ones that power many cars. This was no small feat, and required the development of new, complex technologies. These new engines reduce emissions by 75%- 90% and increased fuel efficiency by more than 40%.
- Fuel efficiency demonstrations have shown that today’s marine outboard engines are far superior in terms of fuel efficiency, emissions and noise. Marine outboard engines today are 38% more fuel efficient than 20 years ago
- The first catalyzed marine engine was unveiled in July 2006 and garnered awards from the EPA and U.S. Coast Guard for its reduced emissions and improved safety. This was no small feat, as the technology had to be created and perfected to allow this engine to withstand the harsh saltwater environment.
- Recreational boat and engine manufacturers are working to make the fuel boaters use cleaner with fuel additives to improve fuel economy and performance while also reducing smoke and emissions. To make it easier on boaters these manufacturers partner with Marinas to pre-blend these products.
New Green Developments
- Marine generator manufacturers have also made significant investments to develop and market products that limit carbon monoxide emissions – in some instances by 99% – garnering several honours for their efforts. Manufacturers also offer marine exhaust mufflers and catalyst systems to protect boaters and our waters by removing hydrocarbons from generator exhaust.
- Boat builders and manufacturers have begun constructing environmentally friendly boat building shops, using green engineering to be energy efficient in every practical way to achieve the latest cutting edge composite construction technology. Such buildings will also incorporate waste water collection systems, pumping it to engineered wetlands where the water will be treated naturally before being discharged.
Boating Accessories Go ‘Green’
Environmentally-Friendly Cleaning Products
- Many marine cleaning products developed today demonstrate a commitment to clean water.
- Companies have developed non-toxic based biodegradable boat soaps, which have a minimal impact on the aquatic environment. We’ve also seen the introduction of colour safe, oxygen release gels and cleansers that remove spots off of boats without using bleach or other hazardous materials.
- “Green” products have become an increasingly large, growing segment of the market. Cleaners that are more organic in their bases – like orange, vinegar, and baking soda based products – and products that are biodegradable and non-toxic. These products are advertised to work just as well – if not better – than traditionally used chemical based cleaners. As an industry there has been much research and development in developing new technology to reduce marine growth on boat hull bottoms. New non metal based products are being tested and introduced and the industry expects that we will see significant advances in this area in the future.
- Being a responsible, “green” boater also means taking care of your hull with proper cleaning and maintenance to prevent hard marine growth like barnacles that slow a boat down and impact fuel efficiency. Many manufactures are developing more environmentally-friendly paint strippers using biodegradable products that remove antifouling paint without the use of traditional toxic chemicals.
- Today’s clean marinas are also doing their part, with boatyard areas that are environmentally responsible.
Environmentally-Friendly Marine Aftermarket Accessories
- Innovative companies in our industry have developed ways to extend the life of batteries in harsh marine environments. Some products are designed to reduce premature battery failure caused by periods of inactivity. These systems utilize the power of the battery and return it as a surge or pulse. These products can also revive many older batteries back to their original state.
- Even portable handheld horns are going environmentally friendly through environmentally-friendly gas use, or even through chemical-free horns that use air. When the horn is empty, you use a simple bicycle pump to recharge the horn without the use of batteries or disposable metal containers.
Top Tips for Greener Boating:
*Direct consumers to www.DiscoverBoating.ca/green for more green boating resources.
- CLEAN SAFELY
- When choosing cleaning products, look for the EcoLogoM label which is a registered mark of Environment Canada. These products have been assessed for their environmental impacts across their entire life cycle and are considered to be the "best in class". For more information about EcoLogoM visit the Environmental Choice Program (link to www.ecologo.org) website. There are a wide array of products available now and you can be sure that those products that carry eco-labelling have minimal environmental impact and are safer for you and your family.
- Be sure when painting your boat to use legal bottom paints and biodegradable cleaning agents and ensure that no paint or cleansers enter the water.
- MAINTAIN PROPER EQUIPMENT
- Be sure that your engine reaches its designed wide-open-throttle RPM by choosing a prop with the right pitch. Adjustable-pitch propellers and modular props help to keep your boat running efficiently and ultimately will help to reduce fuel consumption. Make sure your boat, engine and propeller blades are in good condition to avoid wasting fuel and minimizing the chances of any oil, gasoline or other hazardous materials entering the water.
- RECYCLE YOUR WASTE
- Properly dispose of paints, batteries, antifreeze, cleaning products, oil and other hazardous wastes at a waste collection facility when you return to land. 12V batteries are among the most recycled products in the world. Some marine accessories stores even offer a credit on a new battery when you return your used one. Never discharge your sewage when you are near the shore. Check local rules and regulations for specific restrictions. Nearby pump-out stations and shore-side facilities are available for proper waste disposal.
- MAINTAIN A CLEAN BILGE
- Consider a bioremediation product such as BIO-SOK to convert hydrocarbons into safe compounds.
- PREVENT FUEL SPILLS
- Use or install a device to prevent overboard discharges from your tank vent. Such products will give you a warning and work to prevent spills when your tank is reaching its fuel capacity. Always fill your fuel tank slowly and only fill to about 90% capacity of the tank. Fuel naturally expands as the temperature rises and leaving a bit of space at the top of your fuel tank will help to prevent fuel from overflowing when its warmer outside.
- CHART YOUR COURSE
- Study your navigation charts and get to know the waterways so that you are familiar with the existing marine environment. You’ll be able to prevent boat propellers from potentially damaging habitats or injuring marine life, as well as consuming less fuel if you take a bit of time to plan your trip in advance and thereby avoid confusion and misdirection. Take advantage of the autopilot feature if you have it, as it can maintain a longer, continuous attention span and even steer better than some captains!
- RECYCLE YOUR MONOFILAMENT FISHING LINE
- Protect marine life by properly disposing of monofilament fishing line at nearby marine accessories stores and shore side recycling locations.
- STOW YOUR TRASH
- Keep your trash onboard and never throw cigarette butts, fishing line, or any other garbage into the ocean. Take advantage of shore-side facilities to recycle plastic, glass, metal and paper. Recycle your winter storage shrink-wrap at local marinas, dealers and suppliers.
