Who’s doing what — and what you can do for a greener approach to boating.
With some of the busiest coastal waters in the country, Southern California sees a steady amount of recreational boaters, anglers, charters, and sailors — all sharing an ocean that’s home to fragile ecosystems and local marine life. As activity on the water grows, there are growing conversations about how to better care for the marine environments of which we rely and enjoy.
Across the region, ports including Long Beach, Los Angeles, and San Diego are exploring ways to reduce emissions, invest in cleaner technologies, and support greener operations. Some of the options being implemented range from shore power and electric equipment to habitat restoration and sustainable harbor practices. These changes may signal a broader shift toward ocean enjoyment that doesn’t come at the environment’s expense.
For example, the Port of Los Angeles has partnered with Catalina Express and Harbor Breeze Cruises on a demonstration project to test next-generation, low-emission passenger vessels. With support from a $31 million grant from the California Air Resources Board, the LA Marine Emission Reduction (LA MER) project includes building a new Catalina Express ferry powered by Tier 4 engines and renewable diesel, as well as two zero-emission-capable excursion boats that can operate in electric mode during parts of their trips. These steps may pave the way for cleaner passenger transport along the Southern California coast.
Farther south, the Port of San Diego has continued its participation in the Green Marine certification program — a voluntary international initiative that evaluates sustainability practices in shipping and port operations. San Diego has maintained its certification every year since joining in 2018 and recently received high marks for its 2024 efforts. The program reviews everything from emissions and stormwater management to underwater noise and environmental leadership. The Port of San Diego earned top scores in five categories, including waste management and efforts to improve aquatic ecosystems, offering a potential model for others aiming to lead through sustainable action.
While ports and commercial operators are taking initiative, recreational boaters also have a range of options if they’re interested in reducing their environmental impact. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), recreational boats make up less than 0.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions and account for about 0.7% of transportation-related CO₂ emissions in the U.S. Even so, the estimated 11 million motorized recreational boats in the country produce around 13.6 million metric tons of CO₂ annually, per The Liquid Grid. Fortunately, marine engine emissions have dropped more than 90% over the past 20 years, with fuel efficiency improving by over 40%, demonstrating what’s possible through improved design and innovation.
Of course, air pollution isn’t the only concern. Recreational boating can also contribute to water pollution, including sewage discharge, fuel spills, cleaning product runoff, and marine debris like plastics or lost fishing gear. Studies compiled by NOAA, the Ocean Conservancy, and UC ANR suggest that these pollutants make up a significant share of marine contamination. For instance, up to 20% of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch is thought to come from offshore vessels, including some recreational boats. While these numbers may sound daunting, they also highlight areas where mindful choices can make a difference.
Some boaters are turning to eco-conscious products to make their outings more sustainable. Options include biodegradable boat soaps, non-toxic hull cleaners, and oil-absorbing bilge pads made from recycled materials — all designed to help reduce harmful runoff. Eco-friendly teak care products also provide alternatives for wood maintenance that minimize chemical impact.
Onboard waste is another area where simple adjustments can matter. Portable marine toilets or composting heads may reduce the risk of untreated sewage entering sensitive waters. Reusable trash bags and onboard recycling bins are a low-effort way to manage day-to-day waste more responsibly. For energy use, solar panels, energy-efficient LED lights, and electric or hybrid outboards offer greener ways to power a boat.
Eco-conscious galley habits and gear choices are gaining traction among boaters, with reusable dishware, reef-safe sunscreen, and lead-free fishing tackle becoming increasingly common alternatives. For safety, electronic visual distress signals (eVDSDs) provide a more sustainable alternative to disposable flares. While none of these items alone will solve marine pollution, using them together can contribute to a broader effort to protect the coastlines we love.
Boating spots like Catalina Island, Newport Harbor, Dana Point, and the Channel Islands are surrounded by sensitive habitats, some of which are part of designated marine protected areas. Anchoring in the wrong place, speeding through fragile zones, or creating excessive noise can all have unintended impacts. For those looking to minimize their footprint, it may be worth considering slower speeds around wildlife, choosing clean marinas, or simply learning more about local protections before heading out.
Water quality is another challenge to consider. Land-based runoff combined with boat pollution — like spilled fuel or leftover cleaning products — can contribute to harmful algae blooms or fish die-offs. One recent example occurred in mid-July at Laguna Niguel Regional Park, where thousands of fish were found dead. For boaters looking to avoid contributing to this kind of outcome, keeping engines well-maintained, using non-toxic products, and safely disposing of waste could be worth a second look.
California’s environmental regulations are some of the strictest in the country, and they continue to evolve. For boaters hoping to stay ahead of changing rules and help protect the waters they enjoy, exploring more sustainable practices might be a smart move. At the very least, it’s an opportunity to keep the ocean cleaner and more vibrant for generations to come without giving up the experience of life on the water.
