Obviously, to leave clean wakeprints, we all need to be careful to keep our trash contained onboard and dispose of it properly. Just as important, however, is where hazardous waste ends up.
Paints and used brushes, batteries, antifreeze, cleaning products, oil, oil filters, old fuel, and other hazardous wastes need to go to the proper local facilities, not the trashcan in the marina parking lot. If you’re not sure where to take them, ask around at the marina or call your local municipality’s department of public works.
And if you live in a climate where boats get winterized, don’t forget that used shrink wrap shouldn’t be shoved into any old trash dumpster, either, because it’s a recyclable material. You may need to remove things like straps, vents, and zippers, but most recycling centers accept shrink wrap and many of the larger marinas will have a dedicated place to leave it for pick-up.