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The first Boat Show for The Green Blue Wales

At the Green Blue, we want to get our message of environmental awareness across to as many boat users as possible. The Wales Boat show at the Showground Carmarthen was an ideal place to start. The British Marine Federation South Wales very generously let us share their stand, so we put up our banner and set out our leaflets on the stand.

Bilingual versions of the Environmental Code of Conduct as well as the How to… guides are now available with the guides cleverly designed to be kept and hung on board to act as a reminder of he Green Blue messages.

We approached a number of visitors to talk about the Green Blue, and most were very supportive, agreeing that it was important for boating to be environmentally friendly. We also talked to other exhibitors. There were a number of companies there selling motor boats and they agreed to give our leaflets to their clients. This was great as it showed that across the marine industry people are concerned about the environment.

We were next door to Keep Wales Tidy. Their message of ‘Don’t put litter into the sea’, and ‘Don’t pollute the sea’ reinforces the Green Blue Code of Conduct. Whilst we specifically target boat users it is good to see other organisations sending out the same message to everyone who visits the coast.

Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum were also keen to offer their support to the project by displaying much of The Green Blue literature. They stress the importance of treating wildlife with care and respect – one of The Green Blue’s key messages.

Not all the visitors to the Boat Show were boat users, but were still interested to learn more about the project. It can be difficult to ensure your voice is heard but I know that most saw our Green Blue banner and many visitors took our literature away with them. I’m sure this will start the ball rolling as people take up the Green Blue Challenge and help protect the environment.

By Ruth Sharratt