The 2008 Eco Challenge attracted many sailing clubs across the UK to put on their thinking caps and create ways to make their sailing clubs more environmentally friendly.
The panel of expert judges was extremely impressed by the level of entry.
The scheme's Ambassador, Chris Packham, television presenter, wildlife photographer and author was one of an expert panel of judges for the Challenge said:
“The Eco Challenge represents a great opportunity for integrating environmental concerns into wider aspects of our lives. This scheme gives people a chance to empower themselves to take the initiative whist 'at play' and as our successful applicants have amply demonstrated there are plenty of things to do . Water is the medium of your pleasure and the lifeblood of our world, so I can’t think of a better way to unify these to protect and enjoy the environment than to rise to the Eco Challenge ."
“Be inventive, think very broadly. What about Tern or Duck breeding islands, Otter holts, bird feeders or managing the waters edge to leave shelter for wildlife? How about small wind turbines or solar power? There are plenty of things left to do when your swapped to energy saving bulbs and fitted a grey water system, so get thinking, not only about reducing your impact on the environment but about how you can enrich it too.”
Projects ranged from recycling schemes through to bio diversity projects. Examples of some of the fantastic projects can be seen below:
· Derwent Reservoir Sailing Club
· Nottinghamshire Sailing Club
· Rutland Sailing Club
· Norfolk Punt Club
· Highcliffe Sailing Club
· EXE Sailing Club
· Ballyholme Yacht Club