Federal Environment Agency: Interactive atlas for fouling protection on your own boat

First and foremost, the fouling atlas is intended to inform boaters about the risk of fouling on their own boat when moored. The Federal Environment Agency (UBA) has listed the creatures from which the hull must be protected in the respective harbour or area and which type of antifouling is recommended.

Time and again, algae, barnacles or mussels on boats are combated with biocide-containing antifouling coatings. However, these special coatings are harmful to the environment. The aim of the Federal Environment Agency is to make it clear to boaters that biocide-free antifouling products or at least less toxic products can also provide adequate protection against fouling.

Traffic light system for the vegetation atlas

Among other things, the UBA provides a Mapwhich boaters can use to check their pitch for local fouling conditions. Regions with comparable fouling pressure were identified and summarised in a traffic light system. The colours red, yellow and green indicate the three different categories:

• The colour green stands for the category Weak.
• The colour yellow stands for the category moderate.
• The colour red stands for the category strong.

Overview of fouling protection in 75 German marinas

The fouling conditions in German waters are presented in the UBA's updated fouling atlas. New findings on species distribution and their changes due to climate change have also been integrated. In addition, the portal provides recommendations for effective and environmentally friendly fouling protection for a total of 75 marinas in Germany.

In addition, specific assistance is provided for customised and environmentally friendly fouling protection. Tips and practical measures to prevent the spread of species have also been clearly summarised. Boat owners have the opportunity to find out how they should proceed with their boat when changing areas.

The underlying fouling analyses, mostly recorded within marinas, can be selected directly via the interactive map or called up in the marina list. General anti-fouling recommendations have also been integrated.

• All further information on the vegetation atlas is available at here to find.

About the Federal Environment Agency

The Federal Environment Agency is Germany's central environmental authority. It is responsible for ensuring that there is a healthy environment in which people can live as far as possible protected from harmful environmental impacts, such as pollutants in the air or water. The agency deals with topics ranging from waste avoidance and climate protection to the authorisation of pesticides.

More on the subject of fouling protection:

• Fouling on the torso: how to get the pox plague under control
• Accessories: Antifouling - colour change