Recycling On Board
Recycling your cans, plastic containers, and glass bottles is an easy way to control your beverage disposables. Keep a box or bag on your boat. It doesn't need to be big, just big enough to keep the recyclable containers you brought on board that day. Remember to empty your recycling box when you go ashore so it's empty and ready to be used again for your next trip.
Cruising boaters know space is at a premium, so it might be a good idea to get a can crusher for your boat. A can crusher allows you to save your cans and reduce the amount of space your recyclables occupy. Plastic bottles may be smashed and stored so that they won't take up as much space.
The Impact of Litter
A boater may not realize how plastics that make our everyday lives easier can be harmful to both our boats and wildlife. Plastic is lightweight, strong, and it floats. It is made to last a long time. When boaters throw plastic trash into the water it does not sink or decompose. For this reason, the release of plastic into the water is illegal. Federal law, in accordance with the international MARPOL (Marine Pollution) Treaty, outlaws the discharge of any plastic material in the United States or international waters. Trash dumped into the water is known as marine debris.
... On Boats
Marine debris can be harmful to boats. When plastic nets, rope, and fishing line are left in Ohio's waters, they can damage boat motors by getting twisted in the propellers. Both propellers and cooling water intake systems can be fouled by plastics which may cause engine failure. Avoid potentially unsafe boating situations or expensive repairs by keeping your plastics on board.
... On Wildlife
Wildlife has become greatly affected by plastic debris in Ohio's waters. Six-pack holders, if not disposed of properly, can cause birds, fish, and other wildlife to become trapped or even strangled. These holders are virtually invisible under water, so aquatic wildlife cannot avoid them. The rings may float intact for hundreds of years. Six-pack rings are but one example of dangerous plastic floating in our waterways.
More than 50 species of birds are known to ingest plastic. Adult birds even feed plastic pellets to their young. This causes them to feel full, so they eventually die of starvation. Being an environmentally aware boater can help save these birds and other wildlife from suffering and ultimate death. Please don't splash your trash!
Marina Facilities for Recycling
Many marinas in Ohio recycle oil, aluminum, glass, antifreeze, and even shrink wrap from the public. Take advantage of these opportunities whenever possible and thank them for their service. Encourage your local marina operator to provide these services if they don't already. |