MLA presents certificate and flag to new green marina
June 17, 2008
SIDNEY, BC – Murray Coell, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands and Minister of Advanced Education and Minister Responsible for Research and Technology, presented Westport Marina with Clean Marine BC certification and flag at a ceremony in Sidney on June 13, 2008. The presentation marks Westport Marina as the first marina in British Columbia to be eco-rated as a green marina.
Georgia Strait Alliance’s new Clean Marine BC Program is a voluntary environmental recognition program for marinas, yacht clubs, harbour authorities and boatyards which encourages best practices and ongoing environmental improvement. To become certified, a facility must commit to the Clean Marine BC Policy and undergo a thorough independent audit. Once through the audit process, a certificate is awarded and the recipient is entitled to fly the Clean Marine BC flag.
“We are, honoured to be the first marina in BC to be eco-rated,” said Westport Marina manager, Ken Gowan. “The process is well worth the effort and we hope that many more marinas will see the benefits of signing up for this program”.
Modelled on the very successful Clean Marine program from Ontario, Clean Marine BC has been specifically adapted for use in British Columbia. The program comes with a revised Marina Best Practices Handbook, which includes up to date information on federal and provincial regulations, new technologies and salt water issues.
“The Clean Marine BC Program is another example of how Georgia Strait Alliance works to find solutions to environmental challenges,” says Mike Richards, Clean Marine BC Program Coordinator. “By working with communities like marinas and boaters, we’re finding ways to continue enjoying our coastal waters without endangering them.”
Clean Marine BC is part of Georgia Strait Alliance’ award winning Green Boating Program. This program has been recognized with a Canadian Safe Boating Award (CASBA) for Safeguarding the Environment, among other awards. Funding for Clean Marine BC project came from the Vancouver Foundation, The Real Estate Foundation of BC, the Victoria Foundation, BC Gaming and Dr. Milton Wong.