Denmark cutting antifoulant copper pollution

Danish limits on copper emissions from copper-based antifoulant paints on boats have been so successful that 7.5 tonnes of copper annually are now "disappearing from Danish harbours", the environment ministry has announced. 

The ministry attributes its success to the cooperation of boating/sailing organisations and harbour masters.  It notes that 84% of the latter have invested in eco-friendly tools and techniques, including simply vacuuming away the detritus generated by

routine maintenance. 

The voluntary scheme was introduced in 2003/04 (ED 7/10/03 http://www.environmentdaily.com/15253). 

See press release http://www.mim.dk/Nyheder/Pressemeddelelser/2006-02-10_Afrensning_af_skibe.htm.

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