Individual Blue Flag can be awarded to interested boat owners/users wanting to contribute to a better marine environment and the Save the North Sea Project. The boat owner signs an environmental code of conduct declaring that he/she will act according to the issues outlined in the code of conduct.

Criteria

• I will not throw garbage into the sea or along the coast

• I will endeavour to use land based toilet facilities where available, to refrain from using sea toilets in marinas, harbours and sensitive areas and to follow national and regional regulations

• I will not release poisonous or toxic waste (oil, paint, used batteries, cleaning agents, etc.) in the sea. I will deliver these types of waste to the containers in the marina

• I will promote and use recycling facilities (glass, paper, etc.)

• I will use the most environmentally friendly products among paints, anti-foulings, paint remover, detergents, etc, that are available and work efficiently.

• I will instantly report pollution or other violation of environmental regulations to the authorities

• I will not use forbidden fishing practice and I will respect periods of the year when fishing is prohibited

• I will protect animals and plants in the sea, including no disturbance of breeding birds, seals or other marine mammals.

• I will respect vulnerable and nature protected areas

• I will avoid damage of the sea bottom, e.g. when dropping anchor

• I will avoid disturbing fishery or fishing gear  

• I will not buy or use objects made from protected species or from archaeological underwater findings

• I will encourage other sailers to take care of the environment