Decarbonisation for the Recreational Marine Industry report launched

Decarbonisation for the Recreational Marine Industry report launched © Boating Industry Association

The much-anticipated Pathways to Propulsion Decarbonisation for the Recreational Marine Industry Report has been launched at METSTRADE.

The report was commissioned by the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) to investigate how the global recreational marine industry can further reduce carbon emissions. This independent study was undertaken by the leading global engineering consulting firm Ricardo PLC and it is the most comprehensive lifecycle assessment study ever conducted within the leisure boating industry.

The study looks at propulsion technologies across nine common recreational water craft to compare the impact of lifetime greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, financial costs, usability, range, performance and infrastructure implications.

The findings illustrate that the diversity of the recreational marine industry means environmental sustainability and decarbonisation initiatives cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach relating to propulsion technologies. Comprehensive information is available on the website propellingourfuture.com.

The Boating Industry Association (BIA) has joined with the Qld State Development Group to deliver a series of industry briefings in the Sunshine State on the study.

BIA CEO Andrew Scott said the report was a significant event for the industry.

"ICOMIA commissioned the study to provide the recreational boating sector with focus on the global challenge presented by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions," Scott said. "Whilst the recreational boating sector contributes 0.08 per cent of global emissions when compared with 20 per cent by the transport sector, we understand we have a contribution to make in mitigating the threat and risks from GHG.

"BIA is a member of ICOMIA and holds key roles on its Sustainability Committee, and we support informed discussions.

"The BIA welcomes the opportunity to host what will be some of the first industry briefings in the world on this report.

"BIA also acknowledges the support from the Queensland Government to deliver industry briefings at the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Mackay and Cairns."

Industry and media are invited to connect with like-minded professionals and leaders to share insights, experiences, and ideas on how we can collectively reduce our environmental impact and champion a more sustainable boating future.

Briefings are being held as follows:

• 27 Nov, 3-5pm | Coomera, TAFE
• 28 Nov, 3-5pm | Brisbane, Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron
• 29 Nov, 3-5pm | Mackay, Mantra at the Marina
• 30 Nov, 4-6pm | Cairns, Cruising Yacht Squadron

RSVP: Please register your attendance by reply email to by 20 November.

BIA will produce a webinar of the briefings to share the findings with industry and stakeholders nationwide after the series of events concludes.

The BIA is the peak industry body in Australia that represents the interests of boating which includes designers, manufacturers, importers, brokers, insurers, retailers, charters, yacht and boat clubs, marinas, events, surveyors and trades from boat builders to riggers, and more. BIA is an advocate for boaters and the boating lifestyle and supports safe, responsible, and enjoyable boating. BIA has members in all States and Territories.

The boating economy generates significant benefits. The BIA reports industry national turnover of $9.64 billion, directly employed more than 25,000 people with more than 7000 contractors. Seventy-five per cent are in small family businesses, employing local workers and supporting local communities. The global industry is estimated to have annual turnover of $400 billion.

For more information on BIA visit bia.org.au.