We are proud to announce that this year, GUSC has once again taken the RYA Green Blue Boating Pledge, marking our official participation in the University Sailing Sustainability Challenge (USSC). This national initiative is run by The Green Blue, the RYA's environmental program, and supported by the Royal Thames Yacht Club. It encourages sustainable boating and environmental stewardship by empowering university clubs to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
What Can We Do?
As part of the Pledge, we undertake eight sustainability challenges. Each one of these offers a chance to improve the environmental impact of the sailing community. Here is how we can contribute:
1. Innovation
Identify an environmental issue in our sailing club and find a solution, e.g. rethinking how we use equipment.
2. Energy Efficiency
Explore how our sailing venue uses energy and thinking of ways to reduce this, such as researching green technologies and presenting our findings.
3. Local Environmental Impact
Design and carry out a project that improves our local sailing environment - making a tangible and positive change.
4. Water Quality Awareness
Raise awards about water pollution, then taking further action such as hosting a sustainable racing event.
5. Biodiversity Education
Highlighting the importance of protecting wildlife and habitats in sailing, using practices such as the Check, Clean Dry approach.
6. Educational Outreach
We can share what we've learned by hosting a workshop at a school or sailing club. A great opportunity to promote sustainable boating to others!
7. Sustainability Leadership
Demonstrate leadership by consistently integrating sustainability into our activities.
8. Zero Waste and Circular Economy
Reduce waste by repurposing old gear, encouraging mindful consumption across the club.
The goal is Collaborating with others to make positive environmental changes as student sailors.
What Can You Do?
Join the Green Blue Boating Pledge with us, and show your commitment to protecting and respecting the environment!
The aim of the Pledge is to provide boat users with simple, practical guidelines which they can follow and hopefully inspire other boaters to join.
There are four focussed areas to represent the strapline, ‘Respect, Protect, Enjoy.’ Each of the areas have been selected as playing a positive role in the well-being of surrounding habitats and wildlife.
Which are the most important Pledge actions to follow?
Each of the Pledge actions are equally important!
There are four sustainable topics, but you may find that you already do some. If you can commit to following just one extra of these behaviours, then you could make a big difference to the waters and wildlife that you visit.
Can I join the Pledge?
Absolutely! The Pledge is open to all boat users, whether your boat has a diesel engine or is powered by wind, whether you sail once a year or once a week!
The Pledge actions are also relevant to both marine and inland waterway users, so wherever you enjoy getting afloat you can join the Pledge.
It’s also completely free! In return you can opt-in to receive a Pledge Pack.
How do I join the Pledge?
Joining the sustainable boating community is easy! Simply visit The Boating Pledge on The Green Blue website where you’ll be asked to complete a short form with your preferred contact details, and that’s it!
You can make the Pledge online via The Green Blue website. All Pledgers will receive a Pledge certificate and a metal pin badge.
After we’ve received notification of your Pledge, you’ll then receive a Welcome email confirming your commitment to boating sustainably.
Make your Pledge: https://thegreenblue.org.uk/boating-pledge-entry/