The PROBLEM - OVERVIEW
Marine Sewage - A Problem for People and the Planet
Recreational boating, especially sailing, can be one of the most sustainable and enjoyable ways to travel. It allows us to explore remote islands, wild coastlines and marine reserves using only the power of the wind, and in the comfort of a home away from home.
While most boat owners love and respect nature, sadly not everyone complies with good practices when it comes to disposing of sewage. The reality is that sewage pollution from recreational boats is an increasing problem worldwide, and of particular concern in popular anchorages and environmentally sensitive areas. This is creating a threat to human health and the environment, as well as spoiling once pristine areas. For more information on the various impacts of sewage pollution see buttons below.
To address this problem, an increasing number of countries are designating their coastlines and sensitive areas as No-Discharge Zones (NDZs), where it is prohibited to discharge sewage. Sadly not everyone choses to respect these laws, and the problem is getting worse.
impacts from sewage
Human diseases
Marine diseases
Marine diseases
Sewage contains a long and growing list of potentially dangerous human pathogens, including bacteria, viruses and protozoa - see list below.
Marine diseases
Marine diseases
Marine diseases
Marine ecosystems are increasingly affected by diseases caused by pollution, and climate change is making matters worse. Corals are particularly vulnerable to the combined effects of sewage and warming seas.
Euthrophication
Marine diseases
Harmful chemicals
Nutrients found in sewage are harmful when repeatedly discharged in the marine environment and can cause eutrophication and a proliferation of marine algae.
Harmful chemicals
Harmful chemicals
Harmful chemicals
Chemicals such as endocrine disrupters and pharmaceuticals are often found in sewage, and have been shown to have negative impacts on marine life
Visual impact
Harmful chemicals
Social offence
The unpleasant sight of raw sewage is sadly becoming all too common in popular anchorages, and is certain to spoil your day.
Social offence
Harmful chemicals
Social offence
The importance of respecting local communities goes without saying. Polluting inshore waters with sewage causes serious offence to local people and must not be allowed.