Charter with an 'Ocean-Mind'
Keeping it eco-friendly as you float through paradise.
To honour World ocean day - Here's our top tips to ditching plastic & doing your bit on your explorations
check out the links in each section for easy & affordable plastic alternatives right here in RSA
image by: Vova Drozdey on Unsplash
Often, when travelling we fall into the mind set that we can't change how things work in a foreign area. But always remember that even if there's a language barrier, you actions speak louder than words.
3 simple things to make your mark:
(or lack there of)
Image by: Peter Feghali on Unsplash
Beware, the tiny plastic bag! if you've been to any street market or local grocer you'll know it! The uselessly thin plastic bag that is definitely going to break on the way home. DITCH IT! Instead, keep your reusable shopper/ produce bag at the ready! "When at a street market, I always prefer to pick the fruit myself - once i've agreed on a price with the owner, pop it in the bag, that way they have no time to even reach for the plastic." - N. Van Biljon
Remember - even Souvenirs, clothes & everyday shopping doesn't need a plastic bag.
Image by Element5 Digital on Unsplash
Street markets over supermarkets - Other than your initial big provisioning shop, it's always a good idea to hit up the local fresh fruit, veg and fish markets. These local spots often offer more variety of local cuisine, and you'll have more chance at finding unpackaged goods. Ask at your base or your skipper where the best markets are in the area.
Image by Katy Belcher on Unsplash
Straws Suck! remember to ALWAYS REFUSE THE STRAW, or to have your very own at the ready. They are one of the biggest contributors to ocean pollution, and probably the easiest to avoid. NB - when travelling to exotic destination (i.e Thailand, Caribbean or Seychelles) it'snot advised to drink straight from a can or bottles.
Be prepared and bring your reusable straw!
Now, you're ready to rumble!
Keep your wits about you, remember to think for the ocean and always pick up litter not shells.