Sir Robin Knox-Johnston presents The Green Blue with Haven Award 

TGB plans to use the funding to help limit the spread of non-native species by boats.

Winner of the 2012 Haven Academy Award for The Environment has been announced as The Green Blue for its educational initiative to inform boatowners about the risk of spreading non-native invasive species through sailing and boating.

Receiving the £3,000 cheque from Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Project Manager Jane Swan said: "Non-native invasive species are a growing problem in UK coastal and inland waters with the potential to have an adverse impact on native species and biodiversity.

"Our plan is to use this very welcome funding to raise awareness,  and encourage boaters to take a few, simple steps to limit the accidental spread by boats and on equipment."

Sir Robin commented: "We must all do our bit in taking care of the boating environment. This is a really helpful initiative to help spread the word about the dangers and how each of us can help minimise the risk."

The award will fund posters and signage for clubs, training centres and marinas around the UK.  

Using the principles of DEFRA’s ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ campaign, the signage will provide practical advice on the steps that can be taken to reduce the threat.

The spread of invasive species is becoming a growing issue in both marine and inland waters around the world because they compete with native plants and wildlife and can cause major changes to waterways.

There are over 140 aquatic non-native invasive species in the UK and The Green Blue is encouraging boaters to do what they can to minimise the accidental spread by boats and on equipment.

The Green Blue is an innovative environmental awareness programme set up by the British Marine Federation and the Royal Yachting Association. It aims to promote the sustainable use of coastal and inland waters by boating and watersports participants, as well as the sustainable operation and development of the recreational boating industry.