Boat Show makes waves with community beach clean
The boating community is being called upon to take part in a beach clean next Saturday (24 August 2019) to protect and support the iconic coastal habitat and wildlife.
The clean, organised by Southampton International Boat Show, powered by Borrow A Boat, takes place at Weston Shore in the build-up to the Show, which starts next month. Show organiser, British Marine, has partnered with Friends of Weston Shore, Sea-Changers and The Green Blue on the project.
The beach clean is one of a number of environmental commitments introduced by British Marine in 2019 to build on its dynamic long-term pledge to reduce the environmental impact of this iconic Show. This includes the introduction of water refill points around the event and the removal of all plastic bottles at catering outlets, as well as a continuation to move away from all single-use plastics, serve only sustainable fish and recycle waste wherever possible.
Dean Smith, British Marine Commercial Director, said: “Last year’s Show was our most eco-friendly yet and this year we’re proud to be entering the second year of our long-term pledge to promote the plight of our oceans and importantly, ensure that we keep our environmental impact to a minimum.
“The beach clean is one of our many initiatives taking place this year. It will give the community the opportunity to get out by the water, spend time together and do something positive for the environment.
“It’s estimated that the UK produces around 76kg of waste per person every year. With so much of this ending up in our oceans, it’s clear that more steps need to be taken to cut this down and we hope that our beach clean inspires others to make a difference.”
British Marine is also launching the Environmental Award which has been introduced to recognise exhibitors who have gone above and beyond to reduce their environmental impact and introduce sustainable working practices whilst at the Show.
For those who would like to get involved in the beach clean at Weston Shore, please visit southamptonboatshow.com/beachclean. Those who take part in the beach clean will also be entered into a special competition to win tickets to the Show.
As Britain’s biggest festival of boating, it’s expected that more than 10,000 people will take to the water across the full 10 days of the Show, with numerous free activities to enjoy, including paddleboarding, dinghy sailing and mini cruises. Additional features include live music and interactive attractions.
The Show will return from Friday 13 September to Sunday 22 September 2019. Tickets are available to purchase from the Show website: southamptonboatshow.com
