The Green Blue Conference
I’m off to this on Tuesday – should be a great day out.
PS – you can now also read my Wharf columns online.
I’m setting sail from the calm blue waters of the Wharf next week to take a trip down to beautiful Bristol. I’m speaking at a rather interesting conference for anyone who is interested in the nautical implications of the environment. There could be lessons to be learned for many Wharfers whether they’re living on a barge in one of the nearby marinas, commuting via the wonders of Thames Clippers, or just chucking pennies from the bridge over to West India Quay.
The Green Blue is an organisation which helps anyone associated with life on the ocean wave – whether for business or pleasure – consider the environmental implications of their actions. The Green Blue was set up by the British Marine Federation and the Royal Yachting Association. They offer practical advice for boat owners on issues such as oil and fuel, managing waste, and the effect of boats on marine wildlife.
Their website, www.thegreenblue.org.uk, also has a directory of key green service providers to the marine world.
Among the many patrons of the Green Blue is round the world yachtsman Mike Golding, whose boat is sponsored by the much loved ethical cleaning brand Ecover. Mike hit the headlines a couple of years ago when he gave up a winning position in the Velux 5 Oceans race to rescue fellow yachtsman Alex Thompson.
The conference covers a variety of watery topics with a special guest presentation from TV presenter Chris Packham. I’ll be doing a workshop on how to create green events and there is also an opportunity to see some amazing nautical history aboard the SS Great Britain.
We’re surrounded by seagoing heritage at the Wharf – from the SS Robin to the surviving dock buildings to the Thames itself. It’s great to see organisations like the Green Blue doing their best to preserve that heritage for future generations.
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