Op-Ed: To save the Earth, think like a ‘blue water’ sailor
The idea that the Earth is “blue water” is a catchy one. It’s used in many circles, which is no doubt why the phrase has become increasingly popular. But it’s not clear how accurate the phrase is and how it applies to blue water operations.
For instance, to my mind blue water operations are those that employ ‘blue water’ solutions. These solutions don’t typically use chemicals, but instead are based on principles such as low-risk operations and good planning, which is different from a solution that simply avoids a problem.
However, that’s not to say that avoiding a problem isn’t a solution. It is, however, a solution used in the context of an operation in which a solution is required to be selected and executed.
In my experience I have found blue water sailing to be a highly effective solution. I’ve seen a number of blue water operation examples, as well as several operations that have failed because of it.
Why blue water?
As a sailor, I’ve been aboard ships that have been struck by storms and have never been the cause of a lifeboat being deployed, although this would be a good indicator that the vessel didn’t have lifeboats on board. Blue water is also one of the things I’ve learned to appreciate the most during my sailing career.
I’m a big fan of solutions that don’t rely on chemicals, but that actually do the opposite of what chemicals do.
For instance, consider that the majority of chemicals used in the world today are in the form of hydrocarbons (e.g. oil and gas). These substances are not only corrosive to the environment, they’re also a major contributor to global climate change.
On the other hand, most of today’s blue water sail operations, like sailing to windward, are driven by wind. You can achieve your goal, regardless of how much fuel it takes
