Environment News
Surfers Against Sewage news: Ship pollution, raw sewage in Guernsey, Donovan Frankenreiter
Surfersvillage Global Surf News, 2 February, 2007 : - - Recreational water users urged to take care after MSC Napoli ship pollution. Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) have urged recreational water users to take extra care when using beaches in the South Devon and Dorset area because of the potential risks of coming into contact with oil, hazardous chemicals and cargo debris from the MSC Napoli.
While Branscombe beach is now closed off, it is quite possible that more beaches used for recreational watersport in the area could be impacted upon during the salvage operation over the coming weeks, especially with poor sea conditions a common occurrence at this time of year.
This incident has again highlighted just how vulnerable the coastline is when ships get into trouble and we have already sadly seen the impact the oil is having on local wildlife. But we hope this incident will be dealt with swiftly to prevent a lasting legacy of pollution being left on the regions World Heritage Site acclaimed beaches.
SAS fully understand the difficulties faced in a salvage operation of this kind and our fully supportive of the salvage response unit’s efforts. But it will be important to learn whether this ship was in a seaworthy condition as in so many occasions in the past poor maintenance and inadequate shipping legislation has allowed unsafe ships to go to sea. We wait with interest to see the findings of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch.
Recreational water users should be extra vigilant when using beaches in this area. If you see any signs of oil or debris that might be from the MSC Napoli you should keep well clear and contact the Coastguard on Tel: 01305 760439.
1.5 Billion gallons of raw sewage, wastewater has entered Guernsey waters the last year
Campaigners from Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) actioned Guernsey Ministers last week to remind them that over the last year around 1.5 billion gallons of raw sewage and wastewater have been discharged into Guernsey waters because of the island’s antiquated sewerage infrastructure.
1 year ago last week SAS campaigners started a 60-hour vigil on the steps of Sir Charles Frossard House that called on the States to adopt a full sewage treatment policy, which would deal responsibly with the islands sewage and bring it in line with many other top tourist seaside destinations. At the end of the vigil SAS put Ministers against the clock by setting a sewage counter running. This counter will continue to run until the States adopted a 'state of the art' sewage treatment system – the only way to provide clean and safe recreational water in the future.
Following the ending of the vigil and with political support beginning to emerge for an improved sewage treatment system, SAS took a step back to allow the States to digest the green paper and to explore sewage treatment systems already in place across parts of the UK.
But key timelines recorded in the Green Paper (issued early on 16th December 2005) have failed to be met and SAS are once again stepping up the pressure for a decision to be made.
After gathering over 4000 islander signatures and forcing this issue to the top of the political agenda we are keen to see a decision from the States on this issue, especially since the 1997 Liquid Waste Strategy Assessment originally recommended ‘that sewage treatment should come into operation within a five to ten year timescale’. That projection has also failed to be met and SAS are beginning to question whether the States are now about to backtrack further.
JOIN IN FEBRUARY AND YOU COULD WIN TICKETS TO SEE DONAVON FRAKENREITER
If you sign up for SAS membership in February you will be automatically entered into a draw to win one of three pairs of tickets to an exclusive performance from surfer, singer and songwriter, Donavon Frankenreiter, at London's Shepards Bush Empire on Saturday 17th March 2007.
"The surfing keeps me alive, and the music keeps me grounded" Growing up in California, Donavon's days revolved around the water and surfing. At 14 he ended up in Hawaii, renting a room at Jack Johnson's parents' home. The two became instant friends. When they weren't in the water they would learn guitar and make up songs. In 2002, Jack founded Brushfire Records. It was at this time that Donavon was stepping out musically, making it a natural pairing. Donavon's self-titled Brushfire debut was released in 2004.
Although Donavon is still revered as one of the most charismatic surfers in the world today, his focus has shifted significantly to his music. The album is about the last 10 years of Donavon's life and the love, travel, and new beginnings along the way. Click here to join now and be in with a chance to win this fantastic prize!
New 2007 Sponsors Announced
Uknetweb
UKnetweb have been an SAS sponsor for over 7 years and in 2007 have committed to be a Gold Sponsor, offering Website and IT support for the SAS office. Based in Cornwall, with over eleven years of experience, UKnetweb provide inspired and unique website solutions for a wide range of clients.
From great budget packages to full e-commerce and data driven websites, UKnetweb have the knowledge and experience to fulfil both your needs and desires. To find out how UKnetweb may be able to help you with your website and internet communications check out uknetweb.com.
Maniac Films
Maniac Films are a UK based, independent media Production Company that specialises in promotional films, live music and sports events and thanks to a kind merchandise donation, they are also a two star sponsor of SAS.
Maniac Films tend to focus on music and sports filming - surfing, wind surfing, skateboarding etc and use helmet cams, cranes, dollys, underwater cams, radio controlled car cams. They also produce promotional films for businesses and cover live music and events. Check out maniacfilms.com
Brewers Business Solutions
Established in 1836, Brewers are the leading print, stationery and office furniture supplier in Cornwall, Plymouth and West Devon and are also a one star sponsor of SAS.
Brewers assert that with all their services they are able to provide nationally competitive prices with a quality local service, as well as free delivery in one of their fleet of six vans. Whatever your business needs, Brewers promise to be able to provide the solutions. Visit brewersgroup.com to see how Brewers could work for your organisation.
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Environment - Surfersvillage
