As yachts explore the world’s most pristine and fragile marine environments, it’s increasingly essential to adopt sustainable practices that minimize their environmental footprint. Here are nine practical upgrades that yacht owners and captains can implement to keep oceans clean and thriving:
- Eco-Friendly Antifouling: Replace traditional copper-based antifouling with non-toxic alternatives. Silicone-based and copper-free paints, like Pettit Hydrocoat ECO, help prevent marine growth without releasing harmful chemicals into the water.
- Plastic-Free Water Supply: Install a water filtration system, such as a double-pass watermaker, to eliminate the need for bottled water on board. Systems like Octo Marine provide ultra-pure water while reducing plastic waste significantly.
- Advanced Black Water Treatment: Consider systems like the ACT2 water reclamation unit that treats waste to levels far exceeding MARPOL standards. This innovative technology can even make treated black water safe enough for non-consumable onboard use.
- Biodegradable Cleaning Products: Switching to 100% biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning products helps maintain the efficiency of advanced waste treatment systems and reduces harmful chemical discharge into the sea.
- Microfiber Filtration for Grey Water: Add filters, such as PlanetCare, to washing machines to capture microplastics from synthetic fabrics, preventing these pollutants from reaching the ocean.
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose mineral-based sunscreens free from chemicals like oxybenzone, which harms coral reefs. Brands like Suntribe and Coola offer effective, eco-friendly alternatives.
- Dynamic Positioning: Instead of anchoring, dynamic positioning (DP) uses propulsion to keep the yacht steady, preventing sea floor damage—ideal for sensitive marine areas like coral reefs.
- Exhaust Filtration Systems: Install diesel particulate filters, like SeaClean, to minimize soot and harmful emissions, ensuring a cleaner wake behind the yacht.
- Efficient Waste Management: Employ compactors, crushers, and digesters to handle waste on long voyages, keeping rubbish contained until proper disposal is available.
Each of these updates enhances yacht sustainability, allowing for unforgettable experiences in unspoiled waters while preserving the marine environments for future explorers.