Groupe Beneteau accelerates implementation of its CSR strategy for responsible, sustainable boating
by Groupe Beneteau 10 Oct 2024 08:42 PDT
Groupe Beneteau accelerates implementation of its CSR strategy for responsible, sustainable boating © Groupe Beneteau
Groupe Beneteau, a global player in the boating industry, is pursuing its commitment to sustainable boating.
Several advances confirm the Group's environmental trajectory, such as the renewal of ISO certifications for all the French sites of its Boat division in France, a growing number of suppliers certified by EcoVadis, and its reaffirmed adherence to the United Nations Global Compact.
The Group is also developing its offer with technological innovations that make the sailing experience more sustainable. With its LAGOON catamaran brand and its "Néo" boat renovation offer, the Groupe Beneteau has taken a new step in the reconditioning economy. These significant achievements confirm the Group's objective of reducing its CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030.
A production facility with the most demanding environmental certifications
Groupe Beneteau is proud to announce the renewal of its ISO 9001 (quality management), 14001 and 50001 (environment and energy) certifications for all the French sites of its Boat division. By 2024, more than 80% of the Group's boat-related activity will be ISO 14001 certified, representing a 64% increase over 2022. These certifications underline the Group's commitment to quality, environmental management and energy efficiency. They consolidate the Group's position as a benchmark in the marine industry.
By obtaining and renewing these certifications, the Groupe Beneteau demonstrates its determination to go beyond legal requirements to maintain high standards and meet the expectations of its customers and partners, while minimizing its ecological impact. This commitment is also reflected on an international level through the process of harmonizing certifications for all the company's sites, such as the Olecko site in Poland, which obtained ISO 14001 certification this summer.
A renewed commitment to a more sustainable global economic environment
In 2024, Groupe Beneteau also renewed its membership of the United Nations Global Compact, the world's largest network of companies committed to corporate social responsibility. Launched in 2000 by the United Nations, the initiative encourages the 14,000 signatory companies to adopt responsible and sustainable practices in their activities.
Groupe Beneteau was the first shipyard to sign the Compact in December 2020. This commitment is part of the company's CSR dynamic, which works internally and with its partners to transform the boating industry to make it more responsible and respectful of the environment.
A virtuous driving force for the entire value chain
Groupe Beneteau's CSR commitment is reflected throughout its ecosystem, including upstream in its value chain. In 2024, 45% of the company's suppliers were assessed by EcoVadis, marking a clear improvement on the 24% recorded in 2022. In 2024, the Group's own EcoVadis rating also improved. By moving up from bronze to silver, the Group now ranks among the top 15% of companies rated by Ecovadis in terms of sustainable development.
EcoVadis evaluates companies' policies and performance in terms of corporate social responsibility (CSR). This assessment is based on four major themes: Environment, Respect for Human Rights, Ethics and Responsible Purchasing. The increase in the number of suppliers assessed by Ecovadis is testimony to Groupe Beneteau's commitment to promoting an industry that fosters sustainable growth.
Concrete commitments backed by a constantly evolving offering
LAGOON, a Groupe Beneteau brand and world leader in the pleasure catamaran market, recently unveiled its new "Neo" service offering. This offer will enable the brand's catamarans to benefit from a complete refit at Groupe Beneteau shipyards, and is fully in line with the reconditioning economy.
The Lagoon 620 will be the first catamaran to benefit from this refit, which will be carried out at the Group's Italian yard in Monfalcone. Each boat will undergo an in-depth evaluation and analysis. Hardware and software upgrades will be carried out, and over 70% of dismantled equipment will be reused. Each boat will undergo the same rigorous testing and inspection process as a new catamaran, and will come with a manufacturer's warranty.
At the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival, Groupe Beneteau also presented its latest technological innovations to offer boats that combine onboard experience and sustainability: electric stabilizers, solar panels and lithium batteries will now be featured on one of its iconic models, the Swift Trawler. The Oceanis Yacht 60 will now be made from Elium© recyclable resin, while the Island Cruising boat will benefit from a new-generation hull to guarantee optimum comfort.
"Progress in corporate social responsibility is of paramount importance to Groupe Beneteau. They embody our long-term commitment to excellence and an enhanced sailing experience, while responding to the challenges facing the entire boating sector. Our CSR strategy is based on a sustained commitment at every level of our value chain. By placing environmental, social and ethical issues at the heart of our activities, we are consolidating our position as a leader in the marine sector." - Bruno Thivoyon, Beneteau Group CEO