Ferry – White foam application on Torpoint and Devonport Slipways

Customers may observe the application and forming of white foam on the Devonport and Torpoint slipways over the next few days. This an environmental and herbicide-free trial to control algae growth in these areas.

The process uses the heat in hot water, insulated by a biodegradable foam blanket. The foam stops the heat escaping to the atmosphere, keeping the heat on the treated surface for a sustained period, ensuring a more effective kill than other alternative methods of commercial treatment.

The foam is environmentally-friendly and will naturally disperse within 10-20 minutes after application.

Increased algae growth is anticipated over the next few months and can become a hazard to customers and staff. The effectiveness of this treatment will be assessed over the coming months to determine whether this new method will be adopted in the future.