A ‘green’ bilge discharge filter which traps contaminants before they are pumped out of a boat bilge has won the BSIF Water Pollution Award.
In its entry, the team behind Bilgeaway explained how the filter was developed to address a well-known pollution problem. Launched in January 2019, Bilgeaway traps contaminants before they’re discharged overboard by automatic bilge pumps, rendering the filter’s contents non-reactive so they can be safely disposed of, instead of going to landfill.
Bilgeaway was among 10 contenders for the Water Pollution Award (80 entries were submitted for all categories), but its designers took the top slot after impressing judges with their efforts to protect the environment and ensure all water pollution risks are managed in an efficient and effective way.
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) is the UK’s leading trade body for the safety sector and its annual Safety & Health Excellence Awards cover four categories; product innovation, safety solutions, customer service and water pollution prevention (the latter added in 2020).
The Water Pollution Award is supported by the Environment Agency, the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and Natural Resources Wales.
BSIF marketing manager, Ian Crellin, announced the winners at the end of April: “These Awards recognise the excellent work that goes on within the safety industry; we celebrate the constant innovation, expert knowledge and quality service that goes on every day – all with a goal of keeping people safe.”
Bilgeaway is owned by UK-wide marine emergency assistance and breakdown firm, River Canal Rescue. Managing director, Stephanie Horton, comments: “It’s great to achieve this level of recognition from the BSIF – we will continue to develop solutions and lobby others to keep our waterways and coastal waters free from pollution.”
Find out more at www.bilgeaway.co.uk and www.rivercanalrescue.co.uk .
