Safeguard Our Solent

Safeguard Our Solent

Aims
The aim of Safeguard Our Solent is to promote best practices for waste minimisation and pollution prevention with the marine industry and recreational boat users in the Hamble.

Partnerships
This project is a collaborative project between the Environment Agency, the project partners of Navigate with Nature Programme, the River Hamble Harbour Authority and the Onyx Environmental Trust.

Funding
Funding came initially from the Environment Agency but additional capital has been secured by the Onyx Environmental Trust from the Landfill Tax Credits scheme. This is the first time a project of this kind has received such support.

The Navigate with Nature team and River Hamble Harbour Authority have spent considerable time and support to the project. A new waste management leaflet has been designed, with an insert which details the Hamble's facilities and the Harbour Authority will ensure continuity by maintaining the equipment.

The Project
The following facilities have been installed:

• Sewage pump out on the Harbour jetty (free to use) Currently boats using coastal waters are not required to have holding tanks for sewage, although some boats do have them fitted and use them. To encourage the installation and use of holding tanks the facilities must exist to pump out the sewage. This will help to prevent discharges in the river and at sea.
• Waste oil storage This facility will ensure suitable disposal and will be managed to prevent any accidental spillages.
• Used battery storage To safely store batteries prior to recycling.
• Bins for recycled materials These will encourage the segregation of waste. A set of bins will go in the car park and a second set will be located on the Harbour jetty for ease of use. Fareham Borough Council have agreed to supply these bins.
• Appropriate signage and literature This will give details on the location and use of the facilities and raise awareness of best practice.