Boat owners urged to prevent harbour pollution

Advice has been offered to boat owners about preventing environmental damage

Boat owners on the Isle of Man have been urged to help protect its harbours from unnecessary pollution.

A joint campaign between the departments of environment and infrastructure has placed a new emphasis on prevention and incident reporting.

As well as offering advice for boat owners on the maintenance and management of leaks, the government has also stressed the legal consequences owners could face.

Environment Minister Clare Barber said people must do all that could to "protect the delicate balance between human activity and nature to prevent further damage".

Prompt reporting

Ms Barber said: "Just one litre of oil, or fuel, can pollute over one million litres of water."

As the world's only entire nation to be classified as a UNESCO biosphere, the Manx government has a commitment to protect and enhance the island's environment.

The campaign comes as authorities expect to see an increase in the number of residents and visitors using the island's harbours during the summer months.

The campaign has seen a series of guidelines issued for harbour users, including recreational owners and the island's fishing fleet.

It includes advice for managing engine leaks, directions for removing oil and how to alert the authorities in the event of pollution.

Those breaking the rules could face a fine of up to £5,000.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Crookall said it was "crucial for every individual to play their part in preventing pollution and reporting incidents promptly".

"With your help, we can find the source to stop the problem as quick as possible," he added.

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