How to Make Your Sailing Club More Eco-Friendly in 5 Simple Steps

Sam Purdon
Apr 13
2 min read

Here are 5 ways a sailing club can become more sustainable, with a strong focus on managing waste according to the waste hierarchy and preventing hazardous waste from escaping into the environment:

1. Implement a Comprehensive Waste Management Strategy (Based on the Waste Hierarchy)

Reduce: Minimize single-use plastics and packaging in the clubhouse and events. Encourage members to bring reusable items (bottles, containers, etc.). Think about refill stations and using reusable cutlery at events.
Reuse: Promote repair and reuse of sailing gear, ropes, and equipment through gear-swap days or repair workshops. Car boot sales or a WhatsApp group where people can post unwanted items. Second hand clothes racks are popular!
Recycle: Provide clearly labeled bins for recycling paper, plastics, metals, and glass. Partner with local recycling centers for marine-specific materials (e.g., sails, wetsuits).
Dispose: As a last resort, ensure landfill waste is properly contained and collected by certified waste carriers.

2. Prevent Hazardous Waste Escaping into the Environment

Store all oils, fuels, paints, and solvents in bunded areas (secondary containment) away from water.
Use drip trays and spill kits around refueling areas and engine maintenance zones. Most often, engines being serviced can lead to drips of fuel and oil, so use bags and trays to collect drips.
Educate members and staff on proper disposal procedures for batteries, antifouling paints, and cleaning chemicals.
Arrange hazardous waste collections with certified disposal companies at regular intervals.

3. Promote Eco-Friendly Boat Maintenance Practices

Switch to biodegradable cleaning products and non-toxic antifouling paints. Copper coating has proved more popular, which is an alternative to biocide leaching antifoul. Silicone based coatings are available but don't have a good reputation yet!
Use wash-down areas with sediment traps to prevent contaminants from entering the water. Portable bunds are available if permanent structures are not possible, check out vehicle wash down mats online.
Encourage dry sanding (with vacuum attachments) instead of wet sanding to reduce water pollution and prevent dust from entering people's airways and the environment.

4. Reduce Carbon Footprint of Club Operations

Transition to electric safety boats or low-emission engines where possible. I have seen electric outboards being used on boats.
Install solar panels on the clubhouse and consider using rainwater harvesting for rinsing boats and flushing toilets.
Encourage carpooling, cycling, and public transport use among members, with incentives or reserved parking for eco-friendly transport.

5. Engage Members in Sustainability Initiatives

Run sustainability awareness workshops, beach cleanups, and “green regattas.”
Create a green committee or appoint a Sustainability Officer to oversee eco-friendly initiatives.
Include sustainability tips in newsletters and encourage feedback and ideas from members on improving club practices.

It is sometimes hard to know where to begin, hence why I have a free Environmental Action Plan template below!