While it’s not easy being green — at least, not to hear Kermit tell it — it is a desirable quality in marine products today and can even win companies a cash reward.
West Marine, the largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, announced the winners of its fourth annual Green Product of the Year Award at February’s Miami International Boat Show.
The Attwood Fuel Demand Valve and West Marine CFA Eco Antifouling Bottom Paint shared top honors and the $10,000 prize. These products address two dramatically different problems and both are capable of making a big difference in air and water pollution.
An important component of West Marine’s BlueFuture initiative to help create a sustainable future, the Green Product of the Year Award hopes to encourage green product development in the marine industry. The judges made their selection based on effectiveness, cost-competitiveness, environmental impact, degree of innovation and verification of claims.
In addition, West Marine showcased its Hot Picks for the most innovation products of 2013. These include: Columbia Omni-Freeze ZERO clothing; West Marine CFA Bottom Paint; Caframo Taku Fan; Lenco Autoglide Trim Tabs; Isotherm Smart Energy Control (ISEC); and DeLorme inReach compact satellite communicator.
“The goal [with our Hot Picks] is to find products that make boating safer, more enjoyable or more economical, combined with that ‘got to have it’ factor,” said Chuck Hawley, vice president of product information at West Marine.
You can find complete details about the award winners, visit the West Marine website.