Water is our element. It gives us freedom, adventure, and the opportunity to interact with nature in a special way. But what would our life be without the sea? World Water Day, which takes place annually on March 22nd, reminds us of the fundamental importance of water – the source of all life.
The oceans are the largest ecosystem on our planet and home to 50 to 80 percent of all living creatures on Earth. For us water sports enthusiasts, they are the foundation of our passion. Unfortunately, they are under severe pressure: noise pollution, ship collisions, and plastic pollution threaten the lives of countless marine creatures. Approximately 1.7 million tons of plastic enter our oceans annually. The consequences are tragic: animals become entangled in plastic, die from suffocation, starvation, or drowning. Single-use bottles alone lead to the death of around 1.1 million marine animals each year.
Marine and Environmental Protection on Board
As water sports enthusiasts, we have a special responsibility to protect the oceans. Our activities on the water have a direct impact on the marine environment, so we should act consciously and sustainably.
- Protect coral reefs: Keep your distance to avoid damaging them.
- Do not throw garbage overboard: This also includes food waste.
- Consideration for sensitive areas: Reed belts, riparian woodlands, reed beds, sand, mud, or gravel banks are important habitats and resting places for animals.
- Use sunscreen with natural ingredients: Mineral products are more environmentally friendly because chemical substances like parabens or oxybenzone can endanger coral reefs.
- Dispose of hazardous substances correctly: Antifreeze, paints, antifouling, or old sails should be disposed of through appropriate recycling channels. Never dispose of signal flares and pyrotechnics in household waste – local authorities and specialist retailers can assist here.
- Animal Observation with Care: Always observe animals from a distance to avoid disturbing them.
- Eco-friendly Driving: Don't let the engine idle unnecessarily and drive at low RPM to reduce noise and emissions.
Through mindful behavior on board, we can make a significant contribution to protecting our oceans.
Environmental Protection in Everyday Life
Not only on the water, but also on land, we can have a positive impact on the environment by living consciously and sustainably.
- Save water: Take shorter showers, collect rainwater, and turn off the tap while brushing your teeth – small measures with a big impact.
- Avoid plastic: Use reusable bottles, avoid plastic bags, and reduce packaging waste.
- Collecting trash: Whether on land or in water, every piece of trash collected helps.
- Prevent microplastics: Use natural cleaning utensils instead of plastic and avoid microfiber towels, as they release microplastics.
- Sustainable Consumption: Choose fish with MSC certification, buy local products, and minimize plastic use.
- Offset CO2 emissions: Donations to climate protection organizations like myclimate.org can offset emissions.
Every step we take counts. Whether in everyday life or on the water: Together, we can help preserve the beauty and diversity of our planet for future generations.