Australia Marine Engine Council Inc (AMEC) Formed

An Australian marine engine industry representative body was formed yesterday to represent major industry players who said they are unequivocally committed to sustainable boating practices.

The Australian Marine Engine Council Inc (AMEC) was reportedly formed by key industry representatives as a result of the growing discontent with some of the Outboard Engine Distributors Association (OEDA) members’ inability to commit to sustainable boating practices.

Representatives said AMEC was launched with a clear and defined strategy to further promote a sustainable marine industry, also including gasoline sterndrive and diesel engine manufacturers committed to the environment and industry.

The foundation member companies involve distributors and factory representatives of noted brands including BRP Evinrude, Honda, Suzuki, Volvo Penta, Yanmar, Skeeter, Torqeedo,
and EFFA.

AMEC’s five-point plan states that it will:
* Align Australian industry with world environmental standards;
* Promote clean technologies to consumers;
* Promote sustainable recreational fishing activities;
* Work with both State and Federal Governments to find solutions in marine park management strategies; and,
* Support other industry-based associations towards sustainable boating.

AMEC spokesperson, David Heyes said: “Failure within the previous association memberships to develop a unified approach and a common strategy towards positive outcomes for the boating community has made the way clear for environmentally responsible companies to make positive and honest representations to the public and Government agencies.

“According to the Cost Benefit Analysis report (2007) there is substantial evidence to suggest that old-technology high-emission engines are heavily polluting Australian waters. As an industry body we fully support the introduction of emissions standards in order to protect the environment for future generations. We want to work with key regulators to achieve a more sustainable industry and a better marine environment from the phasing out of old technology.

“Australia is already 10 years behind world-best practice and as key participants in the industry we can no longer stand by passively while other members are unable to show their commitment to protecting our environment,” Heyes said.

AMEC said it is committed to working with industry and government to achieve sustainable emission standards as soon as practical.

Heyes continued: "We are committed to an industry body that is focused on a sustainable future and which will work to achieve a better environment for future generations. Australia’s marine industry has been fragmented for too long and a unified, focused and strategic approach is needed.

“We look forward to welcoming other likeminded stakeholders within the marine industry
in the very near future," he said.

For further information contact
David Heyes, phone 0418 593 382

Photo: David Heyes.