The 2011 International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) is entering into cleaner waters with the introduction of the Green Marine Route, a new component of the show for eco-friendly and environmentally sustainable boating innovation.

“As the marine industry has seen an evolution to new, more efficient, and cleaner building processes, methods and materials, we felt it important to create the Green Marine Route to generate more awareness of the industry’s efforts to produce more environmentally friendly products,” said Thom Dammrich, president of the National Marine Manufacturers Association, show co-producer.

“We applaud IBEX for enabling eco-conscious vendors and suppliers with a forum to connect through the IBEX Green Marine Route,” said Andrew Thompson, president and CEO of Luritek, Inc. “Consumers are increasingly incorporating ‘green’ thinking into their product selections, so not only is it the right thing to do for the environment, it’s good for business.”

“Responsible boat builders all over the country are looking for cleaner alternatives for boat production, and the new Route will now provide companies a place to find eco-friendly products and technical information all in one location,” said James Currell, CEO of Bio-Brands and MAS Epoxies. “This is the direction the industry needs, and we’re looking forward to being a part of it.”

The new IBEX Green Marine Route is open to any exhibitor who manufactures eco-friendly and environmentally responsible products. Products included in the Green Marine Route need to meet at least one of the following criteria:

• USDA bio-preferred
• listed on the EPA DFE (Design For Environment) list
• have an EPA GreenCheck
• have the “Green Seal” rating – for paints and solvents

For more information on how to get involved, contact Anne Dunbar at anne@ibexshow.com or 716-662-4708. A complete list of current participants in the Green Marine Route is available in the IBEX 2011 Booth Guide.

All participating exhibitors in the IBEX 2011 Green Marine Trade Route will be considered for West Marine’s annual Green Product of the Year Award and its $10,000 prize. West Marine’s Green Product of the Year Award will be presented to the designated Official Winner at the 2012 Miami International Boat Show.

IBEX 2011 takes place at the Kentucky Exposition Center Monday, Oct. 17 from 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Tuesday, Oct. 18 from 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; and Wednesday, Oct. 19 from 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Source: IBEX