Unfortunately, It has come to our attention that in the past, some of our recycled boat materials were finishing up in landfills as opposed to recycling processors. A new program aims to prevent this environmental concern entirely that faces our industry today.
In participation with the Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM), Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Clean Marinas Program, as well as other marinas and boatyards throughout the Chesapeake Bay region, Haven Harbour Marina and Haven Harbour South will be pitching in to make certain that all shrinkwrap coverings are responsibly recycled from here on out.
MTAM is selling and distributing bags that hold up to 40 pounds of clean shrink wrap to participating boatyards. These bags, costing $15 each, will be added to our marine store inventory in time for spring commissioning and launching. The bag's cost covers the expenses of pick-up and transportation, as well as the recycling of all bag contents. We have been informed that shrinkwrap material from a 35-foot boat will fill one bag. Vessels larger than 35 feet will likely need two bags.
To ensure the success of this program, we are requiring all shrinkwrapped storage customers – even the DIYers – to participate. If Haven Harbour Yacht Services is scheduled to remove a boat's shrinkwrap, the $15 bag cost ($30 if two bags are needed) will be charged accordingly to the customer's spring commissioning invoice. It should be noted that the increased efficiency of using these bags will surely offset the slight cost adjustment by those impacted.
A critical aspect of proper shrinkwrap recycling is keeping it clean. All straps, zippers, doors and vents must be removed in order for the wrap to be accepted by partnering recyclers. Watch this video put together by the folks at MTAM that demonstrates proper shrinkwrap recycling preparation.
We hope everyone understands the importance of going the extra mile to help protect our environment and minimize any waste deposited into local landfills. For questions, please contact us at (410) 778-6697 or email@havenharbour.com.
