STATEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICE Help Us to Achieve Our Commitment to Promote Best Environmental Practice in the Operation of Our  Marina (Version 1.0)

To ensure that all hazardous wastes are disposed of correctly:

• Dispose of all waste oils and oily water in the appropriate containers at the dedicated waste facility in the boat park.
• Ensure that all batteries deposited in the appropriate area the marina (If in doubt ask a member of staff).

To minimise waste going to landfill and to recycle wherever possible:

• Reduce, re-use and recycle.  Use the recycle facilities provided in the marina.

To use resources sustainably:

• Consider electric or bio-diesel engines, water lubricated stern glands or vegetable oils.
• Ensure wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests.

To ensure that the waters are clean and healthy to sustain wildlife:

• Ensure the legal limit for hydrocarbon discharges into water is maintained (1 drop per 2 litres of water or 15mg/litre).
• Detergents may disperse oil from the water surface and reduce the visual impact, but they can be toxic to aquatic life in themselves.
• Chose environmentally sensitive cleaning products and detergents which do not contain chlorine, bleach, ammonia and phosphates.  These are all harmful to the environment.  Use fresh water or non-toxic alternatives for your onboard sinks, showers and washing machines.  Most heavy duty cleaning products contain chemicals which disrupt the natural reproduction cycle of fish.
• Check bilge water for contaminants prior to pumping, and to use an oil absorbent sock if any are found.
• Ensure loose items, packaging and waste are secure and can not be blown or roll over the side. If items end up in the water, retrieve them.

To minimise disturbance to wildlife and damage to habitats:

• When going ashore, use recognised landing places.  Shallow sea beds and shoreline habitats are often diverse habitats for flora and fauna, nesting birds and other breeding species.
• Find out if the area you are visiting is protected, and why.  Dropping and dragging your anchor may be damaging vulnerable species and habitats.
• If you spot whales or dolphins, maintain a constant speed and direction.  They will be more likely to come over and play in your bow wave.
• Use environmentally friendly anti-fouling products; avoid those which contain toxic copper compounds.  Use water based paints wherever possible or those containing a low VOC (volatile organic compound)
• Contribute and support the EU Habitats and Birds Directive through the implementation of ‘North East Kent European marine sites Management Scheme’ and Action Plan (2007-12) and subsequent review. Develop a culture of environmental awareness that improves the work practices and encourages staff, visitors, contractors and other stakeholders to be aware of any environmental impact by their actions. This includes ways of reducing the harbour and recreational activity impact on the internationally important NE Kent European marine site (for intertidal & sub tidal chalk reef habitats and bird life), and helping to promote the Thanet Coastal Codes for recreational activities (including power craft and wind-powered activities) and interpretation events run by the Thanet Coast Project (available at http://www.thanetcoast.org.uk/).
• Be aware of the ‘Managing the North East Kent Coast’ guidance (available at http://www.thanetcoast.org.uk/)
• Be aware of and follow the Thanet Coastal Codes (available at http://www.thanetcoast.org.uk/)

To report any activity to the Marina Office that is causing pollution:

• To report any activity that is causing pollution to the appropriate authority.

Water Safety :

• Be aware and adhere to advice for Water Safety in Thanet (available at http://www.thanetcoast.org.uk/)

Sailing, Caring, Sorting … so that sailing for pleasure remains a pleasure – we ask that you use the waste facilities provided in the marina