Environment: Global sustainability initiative for the recreational boating industry announced

At boot in Düsseldorf, the leading marine industry associations announced that they are joining forces to create a global framework for the life cycle assessment of recreational vessels. The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA), the European Boating Industry (EBI) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) are involved in this Recreational Marine Lifecycle Assessment, or LCA for short.

Against the backdrop of the harmonisation of global sustainability initiatives, a comprehensive framework is to be developed in the recreational boating industry that enables a methodology for quantifying environmental impacts. This will cover the entire life cycle of a motorboat or sailing yacht, i.e. from production and use to the moment it is disposed of or recycled. The raw materials used during production should also be included in this balance.

Initiative to secure the future of the industry

The announcement was made at the industry's meeting at boot Düsseldorf 2025 to showcase new technologies and sustainability innovations. EBI and NMMA recognise "that ensuring the long-term resilience of the recreational boating industry requires forward-thinking sustainability strategies that balance business growth with responsible action," the associations said in a joint statement.

Developing a global approach to assessing the entire life cycle of products is a crucial step in helping manufacturers make informed decisions that strengthen their operations, supply chains and product design. And that fulfil market expectations at the same time. The aim is to promote a long-term commitment to the environment to ensure that future generations can enjoy boating without worry.

Decarbonisation of the production of maritime goods

The sustainability efforts of the maritime industry associations are based on the "Propelling Our Future" initiative. This is a global alliance of industry associations that aims to provide companies with knowledge about the various technological options for decarbonising their production.

"Since 1966, ICOMIA has been helping the global recreational boating industry to reduce its environmental footprint," said Darren Vaux, President of ICOMIA. The development of a standardised LCA as a continuation of the Propelling Our Future initiative is an important step in taking this work forward and ensuring that there is a consistent pathway for self-regulation in the boating industry.

EBI President Robert Marx emphasised: "EBI has developed an LCA methodology for the European market to meet the immediate needs of some of our members. The collaboration with ICOMIA and NMMA provides a long-term, globally harmonised solution. The final joint LCA methodology will enable us to improve environmental performance and transform the future of the global industry. We are excited to open our doors to our global partners to work on the next phase. He added: "A harmonised LCA is critical to moving the industry forward in lockstep - from eco-design to navigating the regulatory landscape and ensuring we continue to do our part to protect the environment."

Implementing uniform standards worldwide

"As the leading market for recreational boating, we recognise the importance of partnering with the global market to implement a globally consistent LCA methodology as our members' products are increasingly in demand around the world," said Frank Hugelmeyer, President and CEO of the NMMA.

ICOMIA, EBI and NMMA now want to carry out a comprehensive review of LCA methods to determine the most relevant approach for the global market. This will build on the already completed or ongoing projects of EBI's "Blue Boat Horizon" project and ICOMIA's Marine Engine Committee (IMEC).

In addition, the global project on the life cycle assessment of recreational vessels will ultimately also include the development of standardised inventory databases, tools, communication materials and educational initiatives to support manufacturers and other maritime organisations.

Global working group to be convened

ICOMIA, EBI and NMMA will also convene a global task force involving associations and companies from around the world. This joint task force will in turn consist of several committees focussing on technical input and guidance, evaluation and preparation for the successful introduction of the final LCA, industry education and training, and public information, the initiators announced.

About the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA):

ICOMIA brings together national marine industry associations in a global organisation and represents them at an international level. Since 1966, ICOMIA has worked with authorities, regulators and related organisations to promote the growth of the recreational marine industry while developing policies and guidelines to ensure safety, sustainability and regulatory compliance.

About the European Boating Industry (EBI):

The EBI represents the leisure boating industry in Europe. It includes all related sectors, such as boatbuilding, equipment manufacturing, marinas and service providers. The industry makes an important contribution to the European economy, representing 32,000 mainly small and medium-sized enterprises, directly employing over 280,000 people. The EBI has set itself the task of promoting a sustainable boating and nautical tourism industry.

About the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA):

The NMMA is the leading trade organisation for the North American recreational boating industry. NMMA member companies manufacture approximately 85 per cent of the boats, motors, trailers, boating accessories and equipment used by millions of boaters in North America.