Tia sells environmentally responsible products to the canal and inland waterways community.
We operate in the South Midlands area from our narrowboat and sell products such as Ecover, BioD and Suma: Basically any cleaning product, whether it be personal; like shower gel or shampoo, domestic; such as washing-up liquid, products for your washing machine and general cleaning products or more specific boating products; like the new eco friendly boat wash products from Ecover.
Important Changes to BW Licensing Conditions With Regard to Phosphate-Free Cleaning Materials
From 1st October 2008 British Waterways made changes to the boat licence conditions. You can view these changes at www.waterscape.com. Schedule 5 point 4d now states that “you must not discharge anything into the waterway from the boat except unpolluted surface water that drains naturally or water from sinks or showers, washing machines and dishwashers provided that only phosphate-free detergents are used on board the boat."
What does this mean?
Many cleaning materials currently available in shops in this country contain phosphates. Phosphates have been identified as harmful to the environment, wildlife and fish, and as such will no longer be allowed to be used aboard boats cruising on canals and rivers controlled by British Waterways.
Why are Phosphates a problem?
Phosphates contained in cleaning products are responsible for the build up of algae blooms which reduce the amount of oxygen in the water and subsequently result in the death of fish and wildlife. Some, the most common being Blue Green Algae, produce a scum which is harmful to both humans and pets.
Who will be affected by this change?
Everybody required to hold a British Waterways cruising licence. This will apply to private boat owners, hire boat companies, hirers and shared owners, hotel boat operators and floating cafes and restaurants. The changes will take effect from the date that you next purchase your new licence,
What will I need to do?
You should check all of the cleaning products, washing-up liquids and shower gels on board your boat to ensure they do not contain phosphates and replace those that do.
Where can I buy Phosphate-Free products?
There are many phosphate-free cleaning products on the market today. Some of the major supermarkets have produced their own brands or stock more recognised brands, such as Ecover, on their shelves. Other less recognised brands such as BioD and Clear Spring can be bought from local health food shops or from the internet.
Tia
Important Information For Canal And River Based Food and Catering Businesses - Click Here
