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March 2005 61 environment and how to deal with issues such as diesel exhaust emissions, over- board discharges, anti-fouling coatings, and waste stream management. A rea- soned discussion based on facts is essen- tial to progress. Name calling and distor- tions only impede progress. We are indeed seeing some real advances. The cruise industry recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Washington State that will self-regu- late the discharge of black and gray water. The tug and barge industry has been working with the U.S. Coast Guard on crew endurance and fatigue prevention which is important for safety as well as for the environment. Some shipping com- panies are testing various technologies for ballast water treatment in order to prevent the introduction of non-indigenous species into bodies of water such as the Great Lakes or Puget Sound. Internationally, we have regulations that prohibit the discharge of oil and plastic, and control the discharge of garbage and sewage. I would like to see both the envi- ronmental groups and the marine industry continue to build upon these improve- ments. So how do we go forward? First, I would advocate that the environmental groups investigating the marine industry seek input from independent professional bodies such as the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers. This would keep the issues focused on facts rather than hyperbole. The various marine associations should, in turn, reach out to the environmental community to gain a different perspective on their oper- ations and practices. I note that the International Council of Cruise Lines has led the way through their joint initiative with Conservation International. I would like to see the American Waterways Operators and the Intertanko undertake similar initiatives. Perhaps one of the par- ties, either marine or environmental, could host a conference to bring both sides together. The Blue Planet deserves our respect. As an engineer, I believe that we can use the oceans for commerce while we protect the environment. There will be cost impacts, but it's the right thing to do. I also believe that we can have a civil dis- course that draws upon facts and repre- sents truth. Come on board so we can work together. Circle 252 on Reader Service Card Circle 262 on Reader Service Card 400 Walnut, P.O. Box 377, Greenwood, MO 64034-0377 USA 1-800-821-3508 • 816-537-6777 • Fax: 816-537-6162 Visit our website at: www.mrlongarm.com • e-mail: maritime@mrlongarm.com Manufacturer of quality extension poles, cleaning & maintenance tools for the marine industry PROFESSIONAL & HEAVY DUTY EXTENSION POLES Features & Benefits: H18546 2 and 3 section poles available in sizes from 2'-4' (0.6 m-1.2 m) up to 8'-24' (2.5 m-7.0 m). H18546 Several patented locking mechanisms to choose from. H18546 Optimum strength and durability. H18546 Constructed of non-corrosive materials. H18546 Acme standard threaded ends. H18546 Tapered adaptors available for taper fit tools. CLEANING & MAINTENANCE TOOLS H18546 Several styles of flow-thru cleaning brushes. H18546 Floor and deck squeegees. H18546 Painting tools and accessories. H18546 Window cleaning tools and accessories. H18546 Bulb changing tools. Call toll-free or visit our website for a free catalog or more information. Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering SNAME Set to Meet in Houston 2005 SNAME Maritime Technology Conference & Expo and Ship Production Symposium October 19-21, 2005, Houston, Texas The Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME) are set to holds its annual Maritime Technology Conference & Expo and Ship Production Symposium at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston from October 19-21. The event is the perennial high point of the year for the international techni- cal community, while offering manufacturers an unprecedented opportunity to show their wares to an elite level of marine industry buyers and specifiers. The Technical Program will consist of SNAME Technical Sessions, Ship Production Symposium, T&R Session, Texas Section Offshore and Energy Transportation Technical Sessions, and Student Congress Activities. All told, there are a total of 77 sessions scheduled for technical paper presen- tations which are the essence of our Society's annual meetings. Presentations on new and innovative production, design, operations, and innovative prod- uct and system technologies will provide opportunities for professional development and will expand your knowledge base. For additional details on the conference, visit www.sname.org. To book exhibit space, contact Rob Howard at tel: 561-732-4368 or e-mail: howard@marinelink.com MR MARCH 2005 #8 (57-64).qxd 3/2/2005 8:53 AM Page 5
