THE GREEN BLUE AT 20


As the Green Blue


celebrates two decades of impact, we reflect on how the RYA’s pioneering programme is steering the boating community


towards healthier waters Words: Hazel Plush


T


he Green Blue has been a leading voice championing cleaner waters for 20 years. ‘Quite frankly, it’s invaluable to the health of Britain’s coasts and waterways,’ says Jan Maclennan,


a Senior Specialist in marine ecology at Natural England. ‘Its dedication to driving sustainability in the boating community is second to none – without it, our work would be so much harder.’ Coming from a representative of the UK


government’s principal adviser on the natural environment in England, this is high praise indeed. But 20 years after the RYA first launched its sustainability programme, it has never been more relevant – nor vital – to Britain’s waters, and to all those who enjoy them. The Green Blue’s aim still remains three-


fold: to inspire, inform and enable the boating community to adopt more environmentally responsible habits, for the benefit of our waters, nature and all of us. It’s a simple mission on paper, but in practice, one that demands constant innovation and agility. ‘It’s been another non-stop week,’ says Kate


Fortnam, RYA’s Sustainability Manager and leader of the RYA’s Green Blue, from the RYA’s offices in Hamble, Southampton. ‘We’ve had so many requests from the media, such as the BBC wanting quotes about end-of-life boats and a marine magazine asking about non-toxic antifouling, plus all of our usual commitments to provide guidance to clubs and boaters, leading


rya.org.uk AUTUMN 2025 31


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