18 | WATERLINE July 2025 MARINE SUSTAINABILITY PLEDGE Signing the Marina Industries Association’s 2025 Marine Sustainability Pledge is an important first step in committing to responsible environmental practices - but it’s only the beginning of a longer, more meaningful journey. For marina and shipyard businesses, the next phase involves embedding sustainability into everyday operations, long-term planning, and the core culture of the business. One of the most valuable early actions is conducting an environmental audit to identify areas for improvement. From energy consumption to waste management, understanding your current environmental footprint allows you to make informed decisions. Exploring renewable energy sources, reviewing providers, investigating government incentives like solar rebates, and analysing energy use patterns can all feed into a plan for improved energy efficiency. These practical steps reduce emissions, lower operational costs, and lay the foundation for long-term sustainable practice. Water quality is another critical focus area. Implementing bestpractice washdown facilities, using biodegradable cleaning agents, and installing filtration systems to prevent runoff pollution are essential. Facilities can also harness rainwater by harvesting it from roofs and storing it in tanks for reuse in bathrooms, laundries, gardens, and washdown bays - reducing water costs while preserving a precious resource. Engaging staff, tenants, and customers in the sustainability journey is equally important. Sustainability training, clear signage, and involvement in initiatives like Clean Marina and Fish Friendly accreditation help build awareness and accountability. Collaborating with local environmental organisations through clean-up events, biodiversity projects, and educational campaigns fosters community connection and stewardship. Waste reduction should extend beyond recycling. Broader recycling stations, oil and battery disposal, composting, and moving beyond banning single-use plastics toward an overall reduction of plastic use make a tangible difference. Internally, digital transformation - such as paperless bookings, billing, and communication - can enhance both sustainability and operational efficiency. The Pledge is a declaration of intent. What comes next must be a sustained commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration. As more businesses take action, the cumulative impact grows - ensuring a healthier future for our coastlines, oceans, and the marine industry itself. After signing the Marine Sustainability Pledge, your commitment to environmental responsibility becomes part of a growing industry movement. To support your efforts, we invite all pledge signatories to a dedicated forum on Thursday, 6 November at 2:00 pm AEDT. This session will provide an opportunity to share your progress, discuss any sustainability initiatives you’ve implemented, and connect with other like-minded operators. It’s a valuable platform to exchange ideas, highlight achievements, and seek guidance on best practices. For further details about the Marine Sustainability Pledge and its guiding principles, visit marinas.net.au or contact Chris Stone, MIA Operations Manager on manager@marinas.net.au CHARTING THE NEXT STEPS ADVANCING SUSTAINABILITY AFTER SIGNING THE MARINE SUSTAINABILITY PLEDGE Marine Sustainability Pledge Online Forum Let’s work together for a cleaner, greener future. MARINA INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION Thursday, 6 November, 2pm AEDT Be part of a growing movement driving positive change in the marina industry. By signing the Marine Sustainability Pledge, you’re invited to connect with others at this dedicated forum. Share your progress, showcase sustainability initiatives, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights from those on the same journey. Not signed up yet? Sign the Pledge and join the forum: marina.net.au
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