Algae paint

Algae paint is a copper-based antifoul used for boat maintenance (algae-inhibiting paint for the hull below the waterline). The use of copper-based antifoulings on pleasure boats has been banned by the Board for the Authorisation of Pesticides (CTB) from 1 March 1999. Copper-based antifoulings may only be used by the professional seafaring (and offshore industry) and navy.However, buying, selling and possessing this paint, which is harmful to the wet environment, is not prohibited. The likely consequence is that many private individuals treat their boats with this paint, in violation of the law.