OEDA Chairman, Mr Tim Davies, said the voluntary code would be based on international emission regulations and is supported by the major outboard distributors including BRP, Honda, Mercury, Suzuki, Tohatsu and Yamaha.

Mr Davies said, under the code, engines would have permanent, recognisable external labels that would identify the emission rating of the product.

“The rating system is based on world best practice and, while it will be applicable initially to petrol outboard engines only, OEDA will invite any outboard importer and PWC manufacturer to take advantage of the labels,” said Mr Davies. 

“The aim of the uniform labelling scheme is to assist the consumer in making better informed choices when purchasing an outboard engine.

“The message to the boating public is to look for the star-rated labels when buying an engine from January 1, 2007.”

The star rating system will be as follows:

• Zero star - High emission   - Generally 2-stroke engines
• One star - Low emission  - many 2-stroke engines
• Two star - Very low emission  - some 2 stroke direct injection and 4 stroke engines
• Three star - Ultra low emission  - most 2 stroke direct injection and 4 stroke engines
• Four star – Super ultra low emission –  for future technologies

Mr Davies said the scheme was based on world standards and, in particular, the world leading USA scheme.

“Future development of the Australian VELS will continue to follow world standards,” he said.

Mr Davies said the US Environmental Protection Agency introduced regulations in 1998 aiming to reduce marine engine emissions by 75 per cent by 2025.

“However, the Australian Government is not suggesting regulations, preferring industry voluntary systems such as VELS,” he said.

“Self regulation is always a better option and we are hopeful Australian boat owners will show their genuine concern for the environment.

“What was needed was readily understood information on outboard emission levels which is what we can now deliver.”

Mr Davies said low emission engines reduce air pollution, use less fuel and oil, produce less noise and smell and have better resale value than higher emission engines.

He said, as well as investing in the most suitable technology when buying a new engine, the boating public could help the environment by ensuring boats and engines are kept in peak operating condition and being careful to avoid fuel spills.

The VELS system will begin to be phased in on new outboards from January 2007.