Introduction
Sailing gives us a real sense of connection with the natural world, providing the incredible freedom and thrill of being powered by nature. It also provides the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of our seas, rivers, and harbours. However, it is evident that many of these places we love are under pressure. Cleaner waters, thriving wildlife, and beautiful quaysides can’t be taken for granted anymore.
The health of our oceans and natural systems directly shapes the water we drink, the food we eat, and the resilience of the communities we depend upon. This section brings together stories and insights from research-led sailing voyages that reveal these connections with clarity, acting as a catalyst for informed action and change. It reflects the global call for action set out in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, where protecting the planet is fundamental to human health, economic stability, and long-term prosperity. If you want to know more.. See UN-Org. “Why our Oceans matter”.
Sustainable Sailing
In the words of Dee Cafarri “As sailors, we see first-hand the impact we have on the ocean. We have a responsibility to protect what we love.” Whilst we can’t all do everything, we can all do something. This can be through a series of small, thoughtful choices. The way I look after a boat, what I use on board, how I behave ashore. Individually they may feel minor, but together we can play a significant role in protecting and nurturing the future of our seas and coastlines for generations to come.
Aim
I want to create a space where we can explore practical ways to sail more sustainably and care for the places we enjoy. A place to share ideas, best practice, and small actions that help protect and nurture our waters for the generations who will follow us. I also want to create a place to share findings from Projects and research sailing voyages demonstrating how sailing can be a catalyst to protect our natural seas and waterways that we love.
I’ll be drawing on the principles behind environmental programmes like The Green Blue from the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) promoting we Respect, Protect, Enjoy, alongside wider initiatives such as the World Sailing Sustainability Agenda 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG Goal 14) for our oceans. But more importantly, I’ll be bringing these to life in a practical way, illustrating what this actually means when you’re out sailing, or spending time along the shore.
Greener Choices:
This isn’t about getting everything right, it’s about, making better choices, as much as we can and enjoying the journey along the way. The aim is to move beyond abstract concern and towards practical, considered action. The everyday discipline to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle provides a valuable starting point. The Greener Choices pages support by offering clear, honest information and reviews of more sustainable products and services, helping to make better decisions easier for sailing and everyday life.I
Projects
I’ll also share details of sailing-related projects and updates as policy, research, and best practice evolve, so we can keep learning together. My focus is on local projects across Cornwall that are working to improve sustainability in tangible ways
From here, you can explore stories and initiatives such as local sustainability projects like Wreck Free Fal and Helford and Plastic Free Communities.
Research Voyages
I’ll also share details of research sailing voyages like eXXpedition which offer evidence-led perspectives driving solutions to make the world a better place and how we can all play our part.
So lets slip the lines and enjoy this sustainability journey together.