Dartmouth’s Creekside Boatyard is taking part in a study to help support local harbour authorities and coastal communities who struggle to dispose of abandoned vessels in their harbours. marinas and boatyards.
The project has the support from the Royal Yachting Association and its environmental programme The Green Blue who are currently collecting data on abandoned boats.
Creekside Boatyard is to dismantle a sailing boat that has reached the end of its useful life and with support from South Hams District Council, will look at ways to fully recycle all parts of the boat.
“We are delighted to be supporting South Hams District Council in pioneering the disposal and recycling of end-of-life vessels,” said Chris Craven, MD of Creekside Boatyard. “Our vision is that this study will play its part in providing a progressive solution to what is a big and increasing problem.”
The project will also involve students at South Devon College as part of their NVQ Level 3 Marine Engineering studies.
The Council will release a report on the findings in the summer with the hope of raising awareness of the issues surrounding abandoned and end-of-use boats, and further expanding the project.
“South Devon College are delighted to be part of this important composites recycling project,” said Paul Singer, business and qualification development coordinator at South Devon College. “Over 75,000 tonnes of end-of-life composites is generated in the UK each year, with the majority ending up in land fill.
“This pilot project will not only provide the evidence for larger scale projects but also raise awareness of dealing with waste composites with our students.”
The project delivery will be headed by marine environmental organisation Blue Parameters.
