Protecting and Preserving our Local Environment
The facts
- Water is the one natural resource that all life on our planet depends upon
- 1.1 billion people don't have access to safe drinking water
- Fresh water is needed by more than just water-sports: flora, fauna and agriculture depend on it
- The sport of rowing depends on having access to safe waters to train and compete on
- New Zealand rowers have a responsibility to adopt environmentally sustainable approaches to water usage, and a responsibility to educate others to follow suit.
What can you do this season to help?
- Teach others about the importance of protecting your local training waters
- Educate others about ways they too can help preserve the environment
- Instigate rubbish collections from waterways and surrounding land
- Speak to your club captain about implementing a clean water policy for your club
- Promote your initiatives on social media and club newsletters
- Integrate a clean water theme for your regattas and educate officials, athletes, volunteers and supporters on ways they can assist.
What can you do right now to help?
- Wash boats and equipment thoroughly, especially if transporting to another lake or river
- Minimise boat-shed water consumption
- Use biodegradable cleaning agents, and sparingly
- Recycle wherever possible
- Maintain equipment to contain fuel/oil spills
- Refuel away from waterways
- Have a plan and equipment to deal with accidental fuel spillages
- Be aware of sensitive habitats while on the water
- Avoid disturbing wildlife with noise or boat wake while on the water
- Avoid causing shoreline erosion while on the water
- Keep bottles etc. secured in boats
- Find restoration projects underway in your area and offer to help with planting days etc.