ENVIRONMENT : Velux 5 Oceans certified « Clean Regatta »

Velux 5 Oceans race management has pledged to make the 30,000 nautical mile race a ’Clean Regatta’ – a certification program from Sailors for the Sea which helps regattas, yacht clubs and sailing programs achieve higher environmental standards.

The Velux 5 Oceans has been certified as operating at ’gold’ status, the highest rating given by US-based organisation. In doing so, they will ensure the Velux 5 Oceans generates less waste, reduces the amount of debris in the water and limits the amount of fossil fuels used during the race.

 Race Chairman Sir Robin Knox-Johnston said : “Sustainability is at the core of the Velux 5 Oceans, so to be certified a ’Clean Regatta’ by Sailors for the Sea is a great boost for us. It reinforces our commitment to spreading an eco-friendly message around the world.”

 Chris Mancini, program director for the Sailors for the Sea added : “Sailors for the Sea is very excited to work with the Velux 5 Oceans race to support its commitment to ocean health protection and preservation. The commitment that this gruelling race is making toward prioritizing ocean health should be an inspiration to boaters everywhere.”

The Clean Regatta program is available for all interested yacht clubs, regattas and sailing programs, and is found across the U.S., in the Caribbean, and now literally around the world in 2010. Clubs and regattas can realize immediate economic benefits by participating in the program ranging from saving money by reducing reliance on plastic bottles, fossil fuels, and disposable products ; to getting discounts on environmentally friendly products through the Clean Regattas program ; to reducing excess spending by anticipating regulations and avoiding abrupt and costly changes due to new laws and related cleanup efforts ; and attracting new sponsors, donors, investors, and foundations for non-profit clubs through the positive awareness of the Clean Regatta efforts.

 Press info www.velux5oceans.com