The Great Paradox

July 1, 2013 | by Peter Schrappen

One of the difficulties with the Puget Sound and its well-documented demise is that it’s not that well documented. That might sound like a self-contradicting paradox, but it’s not just my take. Rather, it’s something that Puget Sound Partnership discovered early on in their research. The public just isn’t there when it comes to the fact that Puget Sound is in deep trouble. Take a look at their public opinion findings. In my opinion, that has created a whole set of problems for the Partnership. Before they can begin to cure Puget Sound by changing the hearts and minds of Joe Public, they must first convince Joe Public that there’s a problem. It can easily be construed as a mixed message, “Yes, Puget Sound is beautiful. Sadly, the closer you look, the sadder the situation becomes. Trust us.”

Maybe that’s because, on the surface, Puget Sound looks so pristine. However, underneath the glisten belies a different reality, one that continues to get increased attention from all sorts of interests.

It’s what first helped us connect with the Russell Family Foundation. It’s what first connected us with People for Puget Sound, and it’s what continues to motivate us to push and pull boaters to transition today to non-toxic paint for their boats’ bottoms.  Boatyards already are there on the fact that copper coming off their yards is bad. Boaters (who love their Boatyards) want to do their part and, truth be told, cleaner products continue to come on-line that exceed expectations.

Less pollution coming from boats means less pollution in Puget Sound. It’s a simple equation. Fortunately for our outreach, we can promote products (like Martyr Anodes, Pacifica Plus, Ultima Eco, Pump Me Out, Electric Paddle, ePaint, Sea Hawk Smart Solution, and West Marine’s  CFA Eco) and Boatyards that meet our standards.