BCF press release - BCF to launch Protect, Collect and Dispose Antifouling Initiative

BCF to launch Protect, Collect and Dispose Antifouling Initiative

The British Coatings Federation (BCF), along with the Green Blue (a joint initiative between the Royal Yachting Association and British Marine) and the Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA), will launch their Protect, Collect and Dispose Antifouling Initiative at the 2019 Marina Conference in Bournemouth on 24^th-25^th April. The objective of the initiative is to inform on environmental best practice when antifouling boats.

This initiative builds on the successful, award-winning DIY Safe Antifouling programme BCF, RYA and British Marine launched in 2017. It is intended for those who antifoul their own vessels, as well as for marinas and boatyards who are offering professional antifouling services.

An informative trifold leaflet has been produced explaining how to best protect yourself and the environment, especially with regard to collecting paint debris and disposing of waste. A weather resistant poster is also available for display in chandlers, marinas and boatyards. Both tools are available for download at www.safeantifouling.com

Trevor Fielding, Regulatory Affairs Manager at the BCF, commented ‘This new initiative is intended to raise awareness of environmental issues relating to antifouling amongst the boat-owning community and our UK boatyards and marinas. Everyone wants to do the right thing but either they don’t know how and/or they lack the facilities to do so. We hope that the information provided will help to improve the practices followed by DIY antifouling paint users, as well as those applying antifoul professionally.’

Queries regarding this initiative may be addressed to Trevor Fielding, the BCF’s Regulatory Affairs Manager, trevor.fielding@bcf.co.uk

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The British Coatings Federation is the sole Trade Association representing UK paints, printing inks, powder coatings and wallcoverings manufacturers. For further information on membership, please contact Ali Brown at the BCF, Alison.brown@bcf.co.uk, telephone 02476935390