Peter A Derow Discusses the Environmental Impact of Non-Motorized Sports Like Rowing

Sustainability has become an essential element in all areas of life in the current age, and water sports are no exception. Water sports, including rowing, rely on a healthy marine environment for their existence. As Peter A Derow mentions,  maintaining clean and healthy waterways across the globe is an important concern for rowers, as they rely on the rivers. Fortunately, the impact of rowing on the environment is minimal. Moreover, there is also a lot of recycling done by rowers, right from reusing old riggers and bolts on new boats. 

Peter A Derow offers an insight into the environmental impact of non-motorized sports like rowing

One of the biggest advantageous aspects of rowing is that it is a near-zero emission activity, as opposed to motorized water sports like jet skiing. Rowing depends on human energy and power to propel the boat forward instead of any kind of fossil fuel or heavy equipment. On the other hand, jet skis and motorboats can produce carbon emissions and contribute to both air and water pollution. The carbon footprint of rowing is pretty minimal, which makes it a good hobby for environmentally conscious people. 

Rowing boats do not release oil, gasoline, or other contaminants into the water. Hence, rowing has a very low impact on water quality. Motorized watercraft can leak fuels and oils into the water, and release harmful chemicals that may disrupt ecosystems. Such pollutants may degrade water quality and hamper aquatic life. 

Rowing can be practiced on natural lakes and rivers without causing any damage to the habitats, especially when rowers are mindful of their surroundings. The minimal infrastructure requirement associated with rowing is beneficial for biodiversity conservation. After all, natural habitats are less likely to be disrupted due to the activity. Unlike motorized sports, which may need ramps, docks, fuel stations, and maintenance areas, rowing clubs generally only require boat storage and small docks for launching. Both of them can be integrated with minimal environmental impact.

Here are a few best practices rowers may follow to further lower the environmental impact of rowing: 

• It would be a good idea to buy a rowing boat made from eco-friendly materials like sustainable wood or recycled plastics, as these materials help lower the environmental footprint while also ensuring durability.
• Efficient rowing can lower water disturbance. Rowers should practice appropriate rowing techniques with smooth and controlled strokes in order to steer clear of causing needless disruptions to aquatic ecosystems.
• Rowers must try their best to maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing nesting or resting areas.
• Clean and energy-efficient propulsion systems like electric motors or solar-powered engines should be used instead of gas engines in order to reduce air and water pollution.

According to Peter A Derow, rowers may also choose to join rowing clubs that promote eco-friendly practices and take part in cleanup events. Active involvement of such clubs in eco-friendly initiatives contributes to preserving natural waterways. Rowers must also share eco-friendly rowing practices with fellow rowers, and raise awareness about the need for these practices in the rowing community.